The New International Encyclopædia/Lich-gate

LICH-GATE (from lich, AS. līc, OHG. līh, Ger. Leiche, Goth. leik, corpse, body + gate), or Corpse-Gate. A churchyard gate with a porch or shed attached. Such gates are common in many parts of England. The bodies of persons brought for burial are set down under the shelter of the roof while the service is read.