Embalms

Part of speech: verb

Definitions

1. The act of treating a deceased body with chemicals is employed to hinder the process of decay and maintain its appearance for an extended period
2. Techniques used to prevent a body from decomposing often include the application of preservative substances, ensuring it can be displayed or buried in a suitable condition
3. The process of preserving a corpse through the use of specific chemicals is intended to delay decay and enhance the appearance for viewing or burial

Etymology: "Embalms" is the third-person singular present form of "embalm," so it traces back to the verb's history. That verb came into Middle English as "enbawmen," borrowed from Middle French "embaumer," which itself descends from Old French "embasmer." The root is "balm," the fragrant resin or oil prized for its aromatic and healing qualities, so to embalm was originally to treat something with those precious, sweet-smelling substances. The "em-" prefix works like "en-" in many verbs, meaning to put into or to make into, so the word literally means something like to put into balm. The sense of preservation came later, as the fragrant substances were used to protect the dead from decay.

Synonyms: preserves, balsamizes, treats, protects

Antonyms: decompose, decay, deteriorate