1. a stone coffin, typically decorated with sculpture or inscriptions, used in ancient times
Usage: archaeology; historical

Examples

• The ancient Egyptian sarcophagus was covered in hieroglyphics.
• Archaeologists discovered a marble sarcophagus in the Roman ruins.
• The pharaoh’s golden sarcophagus was displayed in the museum.
• Workers carefully lifted the heavy stone sarcophagus from the excavation site.
• The sarcophagus contained the mummified remains of a wealthy merchant.
• Intricate carvings decorated the sides of the limestone sarcophagus.