exhume
UK: ɪɡˈzjuːm | US: ɪɡˈzuːm
vt. to dig out (something buried, especially a corpse) from the ground
vt. to revive or bring to light (something forgotten or concealed)
The word "exhume" originates from Medieval Latin exhumare, combining ex- (out) and humus (ground). It literally means "to remove from the earth," reflecting its primary use in archaeology and forensics to describe unearthing buried remains. Over time, it gained a figurative sense of uncovering hidden truths or forgotten ideas.
The archaeologists plan to exhume the ancient artifacts for further study.
The court ordered to exhume the body for a new autopsy.
The journalist worked tirelessly to exhume the corruption scandal.
Climate change may exhume long-frozen viruses from permafrost.
The memoir exhumes painful memories from her childhood.