What is a casket?

A casket is fundamentally defined as a container used specifically for the burial or cremation of a deceased person. This definition captures the primary function of a casket, which serves to encase the body and protect it during the funeral process, as well as to provide a respectful manner for viewing and final disposition. Caskets are typically made from a variety of materials, such as wood or metal, and can come in various designs, catering to cultural practices and personal preferences.

The distinction between a casket and a type of urn for ashes lies in their use and design; caskets are intended for the whole body, while urns are specifically designed for the storage of cremated remains. Additionally, while decorative vaults for memorial displays might serve to enhance a memorial setting, they do not encompass the actual burial or cremation process in the way caskets do. Similarly, a cloth covering for the deceased, often referred to as a shroud, is not a casket but rather an alternative way to prepare and present the body, which differs fundamentally in purpose and structure. Thus, the correct choice highlights the essential role of a casket in the context of funeral services.