embalm

American  

[em-bahm, em-bahlm] / ɛmˈbɑm, ɛmˈbɑlm /

verb (used with object)

1. to treat (a dead body) so as to preserve it, as with chemicals, drugs, or balsams.

2. to preserve from oblivion; keep in memory.

   his deeds embalmed in the hearts of his disciples.

3. to cause to remain unchanged; prevent the development of.

4. to impart a balmy fragrance to.

---

embalm British  

/ ɪmˈbɑːm /

verb

1. to treat (a dead body) with preservatives, as by injecting formaldehyde into the blood vessels, to retard putrefaction

2. to preserve or cherish the memory of

3. poetic to give a sweet fragrance to

---

Other Word Forms

• embalmer noun
• embalmment noun
• unembalmed adjective

Etymology

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 ) sme balm

Example Sentences

Funeral directors are unable to embalm or treat the deceased in their care until a death is registered.

From BBC • Feb. 1, 2025

Before the 90-day waiting period is over, mortuaries are not allowed to embalm or cremate people without authorization from their next of kin, so the cooler is the only way to keep remains preserved.

From Seattle Times • Feb. 12, 2024

In 2020, a woman in Michigan with cerebral palsy was declared dead by paramedics but was discovered to be breathing hours later by a funeral home worker who was preparing to embalm her body.

From New York Times • Feb. 5, 2023

However, Full Circle, and doulas across the country, do not embalm or handle human remains.

From Los Angeles Times • Aug. 30, 2022

Someone had to embalm her before Mollie saw her.

From "Killers of the Flower Moon" by David Grann

Related Words

• mummify