Hearse (hẽrs), n. [See Herse.] 1. A framework of wood or metal placed over the coffin or tomb of a deceased person, and covered with a pall; also, a temporary canopy bearing wax lights and set up in a church, under which the coffin was placed during the funeral ceremonies. Oxf. Gloss.
2. A grave, coffin, tomb, or sepulchral monument. “Underneath this marble hearse.” B. Johnson.
Beside the hearse a fruitful palm tree grows. Fairfax
Who lies beneath this sculptured hearse. Longfellow.
3. A bier or handbarrow for conveying the dead to the grave.
Set down, set down your honorable load,
It honor may be shrouded in a hearse. Shak.
4. A carriage specially adapted or used for conveying the dead to the grave.