Morgue Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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morgue
[mɔːrɡ ]
Definition
place of dead
A morgue is a facility used to store the bodies of deceased individuals, particularly for forensic examination or if the cause of death needs to be determined. Morgues are often found within hospitals, medical examiner's offices, and funeral homes. They provide a controlled environment that helps preserve the body until it can be identified and prepared for burial or cremation. The term is often associated with investigations into sudden or suspicious deaths, where autopsies may need to be performed. The presence of a morgue in a city is crucial to maintaining public health and assisting law enforcement in criminal cases.
Synonyms
coroner's office, dead house, mortuary.
Examples of usage
- The police took the body to the morgue for examination.
- He worked as a pathologist in the local morgue.
- A morgue is essential in the investigation of homicides.
- Witnesses were questioned after the body was found near the morgue.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Historical Context
- The first official morgue was established in Paris in 1804, primarily to help identify unclaimed bodies.
- During the 19th century, advancements in medicine elevated the role of morgues, combining forensic investigation with anatomy education.
- Morgues gained more public visibility in the media during the rise of crime dramas and thrillers in the early 20th century.
Pop Culture
- Morgues frequently appear in television shows and movies, often depicted as cold and eerie locations where detectives solve murders.
- Popular series like 'CSI' and 'Bones' showcase forensic science and autopsies in morgues, influencing public perception of their functions.
- The word 'morgue' often evokes feelings of suspense and mystery, contributing to its use in horror fiction.
Psychology
- Being familiar with the concept of a morgue can help individuals process grief and loss, allowing for a greater understanding of mortality.
- Studies suggest that exposure to death, such as through media or discussions about death, can influence attitudes toward life choices and values.
- In some cultures, talking about morgues and death can be taboo, indicating a societal discomfort with the concept of dying.
Science
- Autopsy, which takes place in morgues, is a scientific examination that helps determine the cause of death and can provide valuable medical insights.
- Forensic science relies heavily on morgues to conduct thorough examinations, contributing to criminal investigations and legal cases.
- Morgues are equipped with specialized refrigeration units to preserve bodies and prevent decomposition, essential for accurate forensic analysis.
Origin of 'morgue'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'morgue' is derived from the French term 'morgue,' which means 'to put to death.'
- It was first used in 19th century France, initially referring to the place where bodies were exhibited to identify them.
- The term is thought to have originated from 'morguer', which means 'to lie dead.'
The word 'morgue' originates from the French term 'morgue,' which referred to a place for storing and identifying deceased bodies. The etymology can be traced back to the medieval Latin term 'morgue' or 'morgu,' derived from the verb 'morguer,' meaning 'to stay silent' which references the quiet, serious nature of such a place. The term gained prominence in English during the 19th century, paralleling advances in forensic science and the need for official procedures in dealing with the deceased. Initially, morgues served multiple historical functions including storage, examination, and the identification of bodies; gradually, they became more specialized facilities as modern medicine evolved. Today, morgues play a vital role not just in healthcare but also in law enforcement and public health, serving as necessary structures in the handling of deceased individuals.