aquamation

American  

[ah-kwuh-may-shuhn] / ˌɑ kwəˈmeɪ ʃən /

noun

plural

aquamations

1. alkaline hydrolysis; a way of disposing of a person or animal's remains by immersing the body in a mixture of water and an alkaline chemical, after which heat and pressure are applied and the soft tissues liquefy.

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Example Sentences

Cox’s business, Honor Pet, provides water cremation, a.k.a aquamation, on-site so if people use their facility to euthanize their pet, they can have aquamation done in the same facility.

From Los Angeles Times • Jul. 23, 2025

"Some new processes are emerging as potentially more sustainable options for cremation, including liquid cremation or aquamation," he says, explaining the process.

From Salon • Oct. 22, 2023

In aquamation, the body is submerged in an alkaline solution in a metal chamber and heated until it dissolves.

From Reuters • Jan. 20, 2022

Instead, Tutu reportedly requested aquamation, or alkaline hydrolysis, a water-based process considered an eco-friendly alternative to traditional cremation.

From Seattle Times • Jan. 2, 2022

Mr. Shevick also extolled the virtues of aquamation as an environmentally friendly alternative to flame-based cremation.

From New York Times • Aug. 12, 2019