What is the term for poor burial pits found in ancient funerary practices?

The term for poor burial pits in ancient funerary practices is "puticuli." This term specifically refers to the shallow graves or burial pits that were often used in impoverished contexts or during times of mass death, such as during epidemics. These burial sites were typically less elaborate than traditional graves and served as a practical solution for the rapid disposal of deceased individuals.

In contrast, the other options represent different aspects of funerary practices or terminology. A cenotaphium refers to a monument erected in honor of a person whose remains are elsewhere, while a libitinarius is a term describing a person involved in funeral arrangements. The term laudatio is associated with eulogies or speeches made in honor of the deceased, emphasizing commemorative practices rather than the physical burial sites themselves. Understanding these distinctions highlights the specific role that puticuli played in ancient burial customs, particularly in circumstances where resources were limited.