der/die Verstorbene
Translation
the deceased, the departed
Examples
Die Familie trauert um den Verstorbenen.
The family is mourning the deceased.
Wir gedenken der Verstorbenen in unseren Gebeten.
We remember the deceased in our prayers.
Grammar Patterns
der/die Verstorbene (as subject/object) the deceased Die Angehörigen nahmen Abschied vom Verstorbenen.
Similar Words
der Tote (the dead person), der Abgeschiedene (the departed)
Etymology
A nominalized adjective from the verb 'versterben' (to pass away), which is an elevated term for 'sterben' (to die). The prefix 'ver-' can imply a process coming to an end.
Memory Tips
Connect 'versterben' to the English word 'starve' - someone who has passed away has been 'starved' of life. 'Verstorbene' is that person.