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Embalmed: meaning, definitions and examples

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embalmed

 

[ ɪmˈbɑːlmd ]

Verb
Context #1 | Verb

preservation of bodies

Embalmed refers to the process of preserving a body after death by treating it with chemicals. This procedure often involves the use of formaldehyde to delay decomposition and maintain the appearance of the deceased for funeral services. Embalming has been used in various cultures for centuries, not only for practical purposes but also for reasons of respect and ritual. The term can also refer more broadly to any process that preserves an item from decay or deterioration.

Synonyms

preserve, protect, treat

Examples of usage

  • The funeral home embalmed the body before the wake.
  • Ancient Egyptians embalmed their pharaohs for the afterlife.
  • The process of embalming helped preserve the artwork found in the burial site.

Translations

Translations of the word "embalmed" in other languages:

🇵🇹 embalsamado

🇮🇳 मोमबंद

🇩🇪 einbalsamiert

🇮🇩 dibalsam

🇺🇦 бальзамований

🇵🇱 balsamowany

🇯🇵 防腐処理された

🇫🇷 embaumé

🇪🇸 embalsamado

🇹🇷 mumyalanmış

🇰🇷 방부 처리된

🇸🇦 محنط

🇨🇿 balzamovaný

🇸🇰 balzamovaný

🇨🇳 防腐处理的

🇸🇮 balzamiran

🇮🇸 balsameruð

🇰🇿 бальзамдалған

🇬🇪 ბალზამირებული

🇦🇿 balsamlanmış

🇲🇽 embalsamado

Word origin

The term 'embalm' originates from the Middle English word 'embalmen', which is derived from the Old French 'embalmer'. This, in turn, has its roots in the Latin 'balsamum', meaning 'balsam' (a resinous substance used for preserving). The practice of embalming dates back to ancient cultures, notably the Egyptians, who perfected the technique as a part of their mummification rituals. They believed that preserving the body was essential for the soul's journey in the afterlife. Over time, the practice evolved, and in modern contexts, embalming is used predominantly in the funeral industry to prepare bodies for viewing. The chemical aspects of the process have been refined with advancements in science, making it a critical procedure in contemporary mortuary practices.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #25,645, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.