embalm
UK: ɪmˈbɑːm | US: ɪmˈbɑːm
vt. to treat (a dead body) with preservatives to prevent decay
vt. to preserve (a memory, tradition, etc.) with great care
embalm = em<in, into> + balm<aromatic resin>
- em (prefix): from Old French "en-" (in, into), derived from Latin "in-."
- balm (root): from Old French "basme," Latin "balsamum," originally from Greek "bálsamon" (aromatic resin used for healing or preservation).
Etymology Origin:
The word "embalm" traces back to the practice of using aromatic resins (like balsam) to preserve corpses, common in ancient Egypt. The prefix "em-" (into) combined with "balm" reflects the literal act of infusing a body with preservatives. Over time, it expanded metaphorically to mean preserving memories or traditions.
The ancient Egyptians would embalm their dead to ensure safe passage to the afterlife.
Modern techniques allow morticians to embalm bodies for extended viewings.
Her writings embalm the cultural traditions of a bygone era.
The museum’s exhibit embalms the history of the indigenous people.
He hoped to embalm his legacy through charitable works.