mummify

[muhm-uh-fahy]

verb (used with object)

mummified, mummifying 

1. to make (a dead body) into a mummy, as by embalming and drying.

2. to make (something) resemble a mummy; dry or shrivel up.

   The dead lizard was mummified by the hot desert air.

3. to preserve (an idea, institution, custom, etc.) that may have outlived its usefulness or relevance.

   Those mummified customs have no place in society today.

verb (used without object)

mummified, mummifying 

1. to dry or shrivel up.

mummify

/ ˈmʌmɪˌfaɪ /

verb

1. (tr) to preserve the body of (a human or animal) as a mummy

2. (intr) to dry up; shrivel

3. (tr) to preserve (an outdated idea, institution, etc) while making lifeless

Other Word Forms

• mummification noun
• half-mummified adjective
• unmummified adjective
• unmummifying adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of mummify¹

First recorded in 1620–30; mummy ¹ + -fy

Example Sentences

The body is then mummified due to a lack of moisture and oxygen in the glacier.

From BBC

Redacted videos of the couple’s mummified bodies captured on police bodycam recordings could be released if they are blurred, the court ruled.

From Los Angeles Times

An Anglican church in Dublin has been unable to reopen a historic crypt to the public since the remains of mummified bodies were damaged in an arson attack.

From BBC

The inquest heard how Ms Winham's body was "mummified and almost skeletal" when it was found at her council flat in Devonshire Avenue.

From BBC

Researchers found Thutmose II's mummified remains two centuries ago but its original burial site had never been located.

From BBC