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Carcass Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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carcass

[ˈkɑːrkəs ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

animal remains

The dead body of an animal, especially one that is large or has been dead for a long time.

Synonyms

corpse, remains.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
carcass

Typically used to describe the dead body of an animal, especially in the context of hunting, roadkill, or meat processing.

  • The hunter found the deer carcass by the river
  • The farmer disposed of the chicken carcass after it died
remains

Can refer to both human and animal dead bodies, usually in a respectful or neutral term. Often used in archeology, history, or when the body is significantly decomposed.

  • They discovered ancient human remains in the cave
  • The remains of the animal were scattered across the field
corpse

Used to refer to a human dead body, often in a more formal or clinical context, such as in crime reports, medical examinations, or funerals.

  • The detective examined the corpse for any clues
  • They found a corpse buried in the backyard

Examples of usage

  • The vultures were circling above the carcass of the deer.
  • The lion dragged the carcass of the zebra into the bushes.
Context #2 | Noun

human body

The dead body of a human.

Synonyms

body, corpse, remains.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
carcass

Usually refers to the dead body of an animal, especially in the context of remains left after being eaten or hunted. It has a somewhat graphic connotation.

  • The lion abandoned the carcass after it had its fill.
  • The farmers found the carcass of a cow at the edge of the field.
body

A general term for the physical structure of a person or an animal, alive or dead. It's neutral and can be used in a variety of contexts.

  • The doctor examined the body for signs of life.
  • They pulled the body from the river.
remains

This term can refer to what is left of a body after a significant amount of decomposition or destruction, including both human and animal bodies. It's more respectful and often used in a dignified or formal manner.

  • The archaeologists discovered ancient remains buried under the old temple.
  • The remains of the soldiers were identified through DNA testing.
corpse

Specifically refers to a dead human body. It has a more clinical or crime-related connotation and is often used in more formal or serious contexts.

  • The detective found the corpse hidden in the basement.
  • The forensics team examined the corpse for clues.

Examples of usage

  • The detectives found the carcass of the missing hiker in the remote forest.
  • The forensic team examined the carcass to determine the cause of death.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Science

  • A carcass can provide important clues in forensic science, helping investigators determine cause of death.
  • The decomposition of a carcass plays a vital role in the ecosystem, providing nutrients for soil and feeding scavengers.
  • In veterinary medicine, examining a carcass can help diagnose diseases affecting animal populations.

Cultural Significance

  • In many cultures, various parts of a carcass are used in traditional dishes, showing a relationship with food sustainability.
  • Some cultures conduct specific rituals or practices concerning carcasses to honor the animal or manage waste respectfully.
  • The study of carcass disposal methods has prompted discussions about environmental impacts and animal welfare.

Literature

  • In literature, carcasses often symbolize death, decay, and the cycle of life, offering deeper existential themes.
  • Many famous works such as Shakespeare's plays incorporate the imagery of carcasses to convey tragedy and loss.
  • The carcass motif can also be seen in modern horror genres, where it evokes fear and the grotesque.

Environmental Studies

  • The presence of carcasses in natural habitats can indicate health levels within ecosystems, as they attract various scavengers.
  • Decomposing carcasses can impact the nutrient cycle, enriching the soil and influencing plant growth.
  • Research in wildlife biology often observes how carcasses contribute to food webs, supporting numerous species.

Origin of 'carcass'

Main points about word origin

  • The word traces back to Middle French 'carcasse', which referred to a dead body.
  • Originally, it comes from the Latin word 'carcassa', meaning 'dead body or corpse'.
  • This term has evolved through different languages, including influences from Italian and Spanish.

The word 'carcass' originated from the Old French word 'carcas', which meant 'dead body'. The term has been used in English since the 14th century to refer to the dead body of an animal or human. Over the years, 'carcass' has become a common term in zoology, forensics, and literature to describe the remains of a deceased organism.

See also: car, carat, caravan, carouse, carp, carpet, carport, carriage.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #12,009, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.