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Dictionary of Phrase and Fable—C

Corpse Candle

The ignis fatuus is so called by the Welsh because it was supposed to forbode death, and to show the road that the corpse would take. Also a large candle used at lich wakes —i.e. watching a corpse before interment. (German leiche, a corpse.)

Source: Dictionary of Phrase and Fable, E. Cobham Brewer, 1894
Corpus Christi
Corps Legislatif
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More on Corpse Candle from Infoplease:

  • Corpse Candle - Corpse Candle The ignis fatuus is so called by the Welsh because it was supposed to forbode death, ...
  • Dictionary of Phrase and Fable: C - Definitions, origins, and illustrative excerpts for words, phases, and literary allusions starting with "C"

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