corpse

[kawrps]

noun

1. a dead body, usually of a human being.

   Synonyms: cadaver

2. something no longer useful or viable.

   rusting corpses of old cars.

3. Obsolete.,  a human or animal body, whether alive or dead.

corpse

/ kɔːps /

noun

1. a dead body, esp of a human being; cadaver

verb

1. slang,  theatre to laugh or cause to laugh involuntarily or inopportunely while on stage

Word History and Origins

Origin of corpse¹

First recorded in 1225–75; Middle English corps; originally spelling variant of cors ( corse ) but the p is now sounded

Word History and Origins

Origin of corpse¹

C14: from Old French corps body, from Latin corpus body

Synonym Study

See body.

Example Sentences

In the third Blanc tale, “Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery,” the corpse isn’t the only thing that’s life-challenged.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

He’s even more shocked when the formally dressed corpse starts emotionally reacting to the tearful eulogies.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

At the hospital where Dr. Zoubi works, he numbered and photographed each corpse along with the scraps of belts, scarves, jackets, and pants found with them.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

When a half-eaten human corpse is found in a nearby wilderness park, Lew is sent to find the “killer cat” thought responsible.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

Bravo was shot in the head and his corpse showed signs of torture, authorities said.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• body 
• cadaver 
• carcass 
• remains