Glossary
What is shroud?
A shroud is a cloth used to wrap a body for burial in place of a casket. Made from natural fibers such as cotton, linen, or wool, shrouds are common in green burials and in some religious traditions that call for simple, biodegradable materials.
A shroud may be used on its own or with a simple rigid board that supports the body for carrying and lowering into the grave. Natural fibers such as cotton, linen, wool, silk, or bamboo break down in the soil, which fits the goal of natural burial: letting the body return to the earth without barriers. Some shrouds include sewn handles or a frame to make handling easier.
Shroud burial is central to several religious traditions — for example, Jewish and Islamic practice favor a plain shroud and prompt, simple burial — and it is a common choice at green and conservation cemeteries certified to natural-burial standards. It is typically the lowest-cost option for the body's container, since it replaces a casket entirely.
Not every cemetery permits shroud-only burial; some require at least a minimal container, and natural burial grounds may have their own material standards. Families therefore confirm what a specific natural or conventional cemetery allows before planning, and ask whether a board or tray is needed for lowering.
Related terms
Green burial
Green burial, or natural burial, is burial that minimizes environmental impact by skipping embalming chemicals, metal caskets, and concrete vaults. The body is placed in a biodegradable casket or shroud so it can return naturally to the earth.
Casket
A casket is the container, traditionally rectangular with a hinged lid, in which a body is buried or sometimes cremated. Caskets are made from wood, metal, or other materials and vary widely in price depending on construction and finish.
Burial vault
A burial vault is a sealed outer container, usually concrete or reinforced material, that encloses the casket in the grave. It supports the soil above and helps keep the ground level. Many cemeteries require a vault or a grave liner.
Disposition
Disposition refers to the final handling of a body — most commonly burial, entombment, cremation, or alkaline hydrolysis. The method of disposition is recorded on official paperwork and usually requires authorization from the legal next of kin.
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Common questions about Shroud
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This definition is general information, not legal or financial advice. Laws and prices vary by state and provider. See our editorial standards.