embalm

[ em-bahm ]

verb (used with object)

1. to treat (a dead body) so as to preserve it, as with chemicals, drugs, or balsams.
2. to preserve from oblivion; keep in memory:

   his deeds embalmed in the hearts of his disciples.

3. to cause to remain unchanged; prevent the development of.
4. to impart a balmy fragrance to.

embalm

/ ɪmˈbɑːm /

verb

1. to treat (a dead body) with preservatives, as by injecting formaldehyde into the blood vessels, to retard putrefaction
2. to preserve or cherish the memory of
3. poetic.
   to give a sweet fragrance to

Derived Forms

• emˈbalmer, noun
• emˈbalmment, noun

Other Words From

• em·balmer noun
• em·balmment noun
• unem·balmed adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of embalm¹

1300–50; Middle English embalmen, embaumen < Old French emba ( u ) smer, equivalent to em- em- ¹ + -ba ( u ) smer, verbal derivative of ba ( u ) sme balm

Word History and Origins

Origin of embalm¹

C13: from Old French embaumer; see balm

Example Sentences

In 2020, a woman in Michigan with cerebral palsy was declared dead by paramedics but was discovered to be breathing hours later by a funeral home worker who was preparing to embalm her body.

From New York Times

Before the 90-day waiting period is over, mortuaries are not allowed to embalm or cremate people without authorization from their next of kin, so the cooler is the only way to keep remains preserved.

From Seattle Times

She and her colleagues also embalm about 65% of the bodies, preserving them for longer and slowing down decomposition.

From BBC

“I was like, ‘Let’s embalm her.

From Los Angeles Times

Scott was employed at Arkansas Central Mortuary Services, where part of her job was to transport, cremate and embalm remains.

From Seattle Times

Related Words

• mummify