posthumous

[pos-chuh-muhs, -choo-]

adjective

1. arising, occurring, or continuing after one's death.

   a posthumous award for bravery.

2. published after the death of the author.

   a posthumous novel.

3. born after the death of the father.

posthumous

/ ˈpɒstjʊməs /

adjective

1. happening or continuing after one's death

2. (of a book, etc) published after the author's death

3. (of a child) born after the father's death

Other Word Forms

• posthumously adverb
• posthumousness noun
• nonposthumous adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of posthumous¹

First recorded in 1600–10; from Latin postumus “last-born, born after the death of the father” (in form a superlative of posterus; posterior ); post-classical spelling with h by association with humus “ground, earth,” as if referring to burial

Word History and Origins

Origin of posthumous¹

C17: from Latin postumus the last, but modified as though from Latin post after + humus earth, that is, after the burial

Example Sentences

In June, Street Mob Records released Montana’s posthumous debut album, “No Fue Suerte,” after finishing his songs in close collaboration with his family.

From Los Angeles Times

She has previously supervised the production of all of Jeff’s posthumous records, including the 1998 compilation “Sketches for My Sweetheart, the Drunk,” and a live album released in 2000 called “Mystery White Boy.”

From Los Angeles Times

He said the posthumous degree is "a great gesture" to show the lasting legacy of his friend.

From BBC

It is understood she will also receive a full posthumous medical degree in 2027.

From BBC

A return for Brian O’Conner would join a growing list of posthumous digital performances in major franchises — a practice that continues to stir debate over where the line should be drawn.

From Los Angeles Times