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Exhumation Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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exhumation

[ɪɡˈzjuː.meɪ.ʃən ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

legal process

Exhumation refers to the act of digging up and removing a corpse from the grave. It is often performed for legal, scientific, or forensic reasons, such as the need to conduct an autopsy or to move a body to a different burial site.

Synonyms

digging up, disinterment, removal.

Examples of usage

  • The exhumation was conducted to determine the cause of death.
  • Exhumation can be a controversial legal process.
  • The exhumation of the famous figure sparked public interest.
  • They planned an exhumation to complete the investigation.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Science

  • Exhumation can help scientists study past diseases by allowing them to analyze ancient remains.
  • It is often performed for forensic investigations, helping solve mysteries related to deaths.
  • Preserved bodies can provide insights into cultural practices, health, and diet of ancient populations.

Cultural Practices

  • Different cultures have specific rituals and laws governing exhumation, reflecting their beliefs about death.
  • In some traditions, it is a way to honor ancestors by re-burial in a new location.
  • Certain legal cases require the exhumation of bodies for clarity in investigations and trials.

Pop Culture

  • Exhumation has been featured in horror films and novels, often as a shocking plot twist.
  • Many documentaries explore famous exhumations, revealing mysteries of history and crime.
  • In the realm of archaeology, famous figures like King Richard III were exhumed to shed light on their lives.

Legal Aspects

  • In most regions, exhumation requires a court order or permission from relevant authorities.
  • Typically, it is done under strict guidelines to respect the deceased and their family.
  • Laws vary widely by country regarding the reasons and process for exhuming human remains.

Origin of 'exhumation'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'exhumare', meaning 'to dig out of the ground'.
  • It combines 'ex-', meaning 'out', and 'humus', meaning 'ground' or 'earth'.
  • The term has been used in English since the late 17th century.

The term 'exhumation' originates from the Latin word 'exhumare', which means 'to dig out of the ground'. This is formed from 'ex-', meaning 'out of', and 'humus', meaning 'earth' or 'ground'. The use of the term has been traced back to legal contexts where the need to recover a body for investigation or relocation arose. Over time, the practice has been associated not only with legal and scientific investigations but also with historical archeological digs where ancient remains need to be studied. Exhumation has cultural significance in various societies, often connected to beliefs about death, burial rites, and the afterlife.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #31,801 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.