difunto

deceased; late

adjective dee-FOON-toh Rare

Origin: Latin defunctus (one who has completed his duties).

Usage Note

Difunto functions as an adjective ('su difunto padre') and also as a noun meaning 'the deceased person'. It is the formal or elevated register word; everyday speech more often uses muerto. The feminine noun form difunta refers to a deceased woman. 'Día de los Difuntos' (November 2) is a widely observed Catholic commemorative day.

Examples

"Rezaron por el alma del difunto."

Natural Translation

They prayed for the soul of the deceased.

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