1.
funeral flowers; flowers offered at a funeral, wake, or memorial service
Flowers presented as an offering at a funeral or memorial ceremony, typically arranged in large stands flanking the altar. A formal expression of condolence from individuals, companies, or organizations.
Composed of 供 (offering) + 花 (flower). Also read くげ in Buddhist contexts. The flowers are typically white chrysanthemums, lilies, or other subdued flowers arranged on large stands (花スタンド) placed beside the altar.
Common collocations
- 供花を贈る: to send funeral flowers
- 供花の手配: arrangement of funeral flowers
- 供花を辞退する: to decline funeral flowers (family request)
- 供花料: cost of funeral flowers
Cultural note
In Japanese funerals, 供花 are formal offerings that are displayed on stands near the coffin. The sender's name and affiliation are displayed on the stand. It is polite to coordinate through the funeral home to ensure appropriate style and placement. Some families decline 供花 to keep the ceremony simple.
Similar words
- 供物: offering (general) — broader term covering food, incense, and other offerings to the deceased or to deities
- 献花: flower offering — laying flowers at a memorial site or grave; less formal than 供花
- 花輪: wreath — a circular flower arrangement, sometimes used at funerals but also at business openings
Related Words
Compare:
花輪 (wreath)