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embalm

[ em-bahm ]
/ ɛmˈbɑm /
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See synonyms for: embalm / embalming / embalmer on Thesaurus.com

verb (used with object)
to treat (a dead body) so as to preserve it, as with chemicals, drugs, or balsams.
to preserve from oblivion; keep in memory: his deeds embalmed in the hearts of his disciples.
to cause to remain unchanged; prevent the development of.
to impart a balmy fragrance to.
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Origin of embalm

1300–50; Middle English embalmen, embaumen<Old French emba(u)smer, equivalent to em-em-1 + -ba(u)smer, verbal derivative of ba(u)smebalm

OTHER WORDS FROM embalm

emĀ·balmĀ·er, nounemĀ·balmĀ·ment, noununĀ·emĀ·balmed, adjective
Dictionary.com Unabridged Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, Ā© Random House, Inc. 2022

How to use embalm in a sentence

British Dictionary definitions for embalm

embalm
/ (ÉŖmˈbɑːm) /

verb (tr)
to treat (a dead body) with preservatives, as by injecting formaldehyde into the blood vessels, to retard putrefaction
to preserve or cherish the memory of
poetic to give a sweet fragrance to

Derived forms of embalm

embalmer, nounembalmment, noun

Word Origin for embalm

C13: from Old French embaumer; see balm
Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition Ā© William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 Ā© HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Medical definitions for embalm

embalm
[ ĕm-bƤm′ ]

v.
To treat a corpse with preservatives in order to prevent decay.
The American HeritageĀ® Stedman's Medical Dictionary Copyright Ā© 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Company.
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