ashes Meaning, Definition & Usage

  1. noun the residue that remains when something is burned
    ash.
  2. noun any of various deciduous pinnate-leaved ornamental or timber trees of the genus Fraxinus
    ash; ash tree.
  3. noun strong elastic wood of any of various ash trees; used for furniture and tool handles and sporting goods such as baseball bats
    ash.
  4. verb convert into ashes
    ash.

WordNet

Ash"es noun plural
Etymology
OE. asche, aske, AS. asce, æsce, axe; akin to OHG. asca, G. asche, D. asch, Icel. & Sw. aska, Dan. aske, Goth. azgo.
Definitions
  1. The earthy or mineral particles of combustible substances remaining after combustion, as of wood or coal.
  2. Specifically: The remains of the human body when burnt, or when "returned to dust" by natural decay.
    Their martyred blood and ashes sow. Milton.
    The coffins were broken open. The ashes were scattered to the winds. Macaulay.
  3. The color of ashes; deathlike paleness.
    The lip of ashes, and the cheek of flame. Byron.

Webster 1913