embalm

verb

em·​balm im-ˈbä(l)m 

em-

embalmed; embalming; embalms

transitive verb

1

: to treat (a dead body) so as to protect from decay

2

: to fill with sweet odors : perfume

3

: to protect from decay or oblivion : preserve

embalm a hero's memory

4

: to fix in a static condition

embalmer noun

embalmment

im-ˈbä(l)m-mənt 

em-

noun

Examples of embalm in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

However, methanol becomes formaldehyde—a cancer-causing chemical used in industrial glues and embalming corpses—and formate, or formic acid, which is a strong and toxic acid. —Matt Robison, Newsweek, 21 Nov. 2024

Many a man lives a burden to the earth, but a good book is the precious life-blood of a master-spirit, embalmed and treasured up on purpose to a life beyond life. —Jay Nordlinger, National Review, 30 Oct. 2024

Fonzie costumes suggested a human being resembling Henry Winkler, albeit embalmed. —Christopher Borrelli, Chicago Tribune, 3 Oct. 2024

The Digest Scientists have identified the mysterious man discovered embalmed in a sarcophagus under the Notre-Dame Cathedral during renovations. —The Editors Of Artnews, ARTnews.com, 18 Sep. 2024

Word History

Etymology

Middle English embaumen, from Anglo-French enbaumer, enbasmer, from en- + basme balm — more at balm

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

embalm

verb

em·​balm im-ˈbä(l)m 

: to treat a dead body with special preparations to preserve it from decay

embalmer noun

embalmment

-mənt 

noun

Medical Definition

embalm

transitive verb

em·​balm

im-ˈbä(l)m, New England also -ˈbȧm

: to treat (a dead body) so as to protect from decay

embalmer noun

embalmment

-ˈbä(l)m-mənt 

noun