ash, ashes

Facts:

The term “ash” (or “ashes”) refers to the grey powdery substance that is left behind after wood is burned.

In ancient times, sitting in ashes was a sign of mourning or grieving. When grieving, it was the custom to wear rough, scratchy sackcloth and sit in ashes or put ashes on the head.
Putting ashes on the head was also a sign of humiliation or embarrassment.
An “ash heap” is a pile of ashes.
Sometimes the word “dust” is used with the term “ashes” in the phrase, “dust and ashes.” This phrase can be translated as “dust and ashes” or simply as “ashes.”
When translating “ashes,” use the word in the target language that refers to the burned-up remains after wood has burned.

(See also: fire, sackcloth)