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Mummifying: meaning, definitions and examples

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mummifying

 

[ˈmʌmɪfaɪɪŋ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

preserving bodies

Mummifying is the ancient practice of preserving a deceased person's body through a process that typically involves embalming and wrapping in linen. This method was predominantly used in ancient Egypt, where it was believed to help the deceased in their journey to the afterlife. The process involves the removal of internal organs, drying the body with natron salt, and encasing it in resin-soaked wrappings. Mummification was not only limited to humans; animals were also mummified and buried with significance.

Synonyms

embalming, preserving, wrapping.

Examples of usage

  • The ancient Egyptians were skilled in mummifying their pharaohs.
  • Mummifying techniques varied across different cultures and times.
  • Scientists study ancient mummies to learn about past civilizations.
  • The process of mummifying involved elaborate rituals and practices.

Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

  • The practice began in ancient Egypt around 2600 BC, primarily to prepare bodies for the afterlife.
  • Ancient Egyptians believed that preserving the body helped the soul live on, which is why they created elaborate mummies.
  • The word stems from the Latin 'mumia,' which means 'bitumen' or 'asphalt,' as early mummies were believed to be treated with this substance.

Cultural Significance

  • Mummification was not exclusive to Egypt; cultures in South America, Asia, and Europe also practiced body preservation.
  • In the Andes, the Inca civilization mummified their leaders, sometimes placing them on thrones to 'rule' even after death.
  • The rituals surrounding mummifying often included prayers and items for the deceased to use in the afterlife.

Science

  • The process involves using substances like natron, a natural salt, to draw moisture from the body and prevent decay.
  • Modern forensic science has studied mummies to learn about ancient diseases, diet, and lifestyle of past civilizations.
  • Radiology scans have revealed hidden artifacts within mummies, allowing scientists to study their history without damaging the remains.

Popular Culture

  • Mummies have been a popular subject in horror films, often depicted as resurrected beings seeking revenge.
  • The 'Mummy' film franchise brought the ancient practice into contemporary pop culture, sparking interest in Egyptian history.
  • Mummies have inspired countless books, comics, and video games, showcasing their lasting intrigue in the modern imagination.

Literature

  • Mummies are featured in ancient literature, including the famously misinterpreted tales of cursed pharaohs and their treasures.
  • Many works of fiction employ the concept of mummies as metaphors for buried secrets and the past resurfacing.

Translations

Translations of the word "mummifying" in other languages:

🇵🇹 mumificação

🇮🇳 ममीर करना

🇩🇪 einbalsamieren

🇮🇩 mumi

🇺🇦 бальзамування

🇵🇱 mumifikacja

🇯🇵 ミイラ化する

🇫🇷 momification

🇪🇸 momificación

🇹🇷 mumyalama

🇰🇷 미라로 만들기

🇸🇦 تحنيط

🇨🇿 mumifikace

🇸🇰 mumifikácia

🇨🇳 木乃伊化

🇸🇮 mumifikacija

🇮🇸 mumífíkation

🇰🇿 мумиялау

🇬🇪 მუმიფიცირება

🇦🇿 mumiyalaşdırma

🇲🇽 momificación

Word Frequency Rank

At position #41,816, this word is among the less frequently used terms in English. While interesting to know, it's not crucial for most English learners unless needed for specific purposes.