What is the proper term for "headstone" in cemetery practice?

In cemetery practice, the term that is most commonly used to refer to a "headstone" is "marker." This terminology encompasses a variety of structures used to identify burial sites, including both upright stones and flat plaques placed on the ground. The term "marker" is favored because it refers broadly to any type of object that serves to indicate the location of a grave, regardless of its design or size.

While "tombstone," "gravestone," and "memorial" are also valid terms, they can imply specific forms or functions that are not universally applicable. For example, "tombstone" often refers specifically to a larger, more elaborate structure and may include additional elements, such as sculptures or inscriptions, that are not present on every headstone. "Gravestone" is often used interchangeably with "headstone," but it carries a similar connotation of a stone that marks a grave without emphasizing the more inclusive range of grave markers. "Memorial" can refer to any tribute or commemorative item, not just those marking a grave, and thus lacks the specificity of "marker."

By using "marker," the distinction is made clear that it can include various types of burial markers, ensuring clarity in cemetery practice language