col·um·ba·ri·um \ˌkäləmˈba(a)rēəm\noun (pluralcolumba·ria \-rēə\) Etymology: Latin, literally, dovecote, from columba dove — more at columbine 1.: a structure of vaults lined with recesses for cinerary urns < a columbarium containing glass-doored marble compartments for the ashes of cremated bodies — American Guide Series: New York City > 2.: a recess in a columbarium