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Mummifying: meaning, definitions and examples

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mummifying

 

[ ˈmʌmɪfaɪɪŋ ]

Verb
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.

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

Etymology

The word 'mummifying' derives from the Latin 'mumia', which in turn comes from the Arabic 'mūmyā', meaning 'bitumen' or 'asphalt', as these materials were initially used in the embalming process. The ancient Egyptians are credited with the most sophisticated mummification techniques, which date back to around 2600 BC. They believed in an afterlife, and preserving the body was crucial for the deceased's survival in the next world. Mummification became a complex ritual involving religious practices, art, and a deep understanding of human anatomy. Over time, this practice spread to other cultures, although the methods and beliefs varied. Despite being primarily associated with Egypt, different forms of mummification have been found throughout the world, influenced by beliefs in immortality and the afterlife.

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.