verb

embalm

im-BAHM

Quiz me More like this

Embalm (verb) means to embalm a body is to treat it with preservatives so that it does not decompose. Example: “The undertaker embalmed the body before the funeral.”

verb

To embalm a body is to treat it with preservatives so that it does not decompose.

"The undertaker embalmed the body before the funeral."

"Ancient Egyptians embalmed their dead as part of burial rites."

"The process is used to embalm bodies for viewing before burial."

How to use embalm

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishTo embalm a body means to preserve it with chemicals so it does not decay.

When to use it

It is a formal, technical word mostly used in funeral and medical contexts.

Memory tip

In the usual British pronunciation the l is silent, so embalm rhymes with calm and palm, though some American speakers do sound the l.

Trace the full origin ↓

Common pairings

embalm the body embalmed remains embalming process

Vocabulary Flow

Build your vocabulary from words like embalm.

Vocabulary Flow serves the next word, and the next — meaning, pronunciation and an example each time. Practice at your level, or learn English in your own language.

Start vocabulary practice

C2 · Advanced serendipity Fortunate discoveries made entirely by accident.

Gen Z slang rizz Charm — the ability to attract a romantic interest.

B2 · Intermediate empathy The capacity to share another person’s feelings.

C1 · Advanced nonchalant Casually calm and relaxed; unconcerned.

Internet slang delulu Delusional — believing something against the odds.

Etymology nostalgia Greek nostos “return home” + algos “pain”.

C2 · Advanced serendipity Fortunate discoveries made entirely by accident.

Gen Z slang rizz Charm — the ability to attract a romantic interest.

B2 · Intermediate empathy The capacity to share another person’s feelings.

C1 · Advanced nonchalant Casually calm and relaxed; unconcerned.

Internet slang delulu Delusional — believing something against the odds.

Etymology nostalgia Greek nostos “return home” + algos “pain”.

Test yourself on “embalm” A quick quiz — meaning, synonyms & usage →

Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

The undertaker _____ the body before the funeral.

Etymology

Embalm came into English as the Middle English word enbawmen, which came from Middle French embaumer, developed in turn from Old French embasmer, itself related to the word balm.

Origin: Middle English

Frequently asked questions

What does it mean to embalm someone?

It means treating a dead body with preservatives so it does not decompose.

Who embalms bodies?

Trained professionals such as undertakers or morticians usually carry out embalming.

How do you pronounce embalm?

In standard British English it is said as im-BAHM, with a silent l; some American speakers pronounce the l instead.

What is the meaning of embalm?

"embalm" (verb) means to embalm a body is to treat it with preservatives so that it does not decompose.