embalm

verb

em·​balm im-ˈbä(l)m How to pronounce embalm (audio)
em-
embalmed; embalming; embalms

transitive verb

1
: to treat (a dead body) so as to protect from decay
2
: to fill with sweet odors : perfume
3
: to protect from decay or oblivion : preserve
embalm a hero's memory
4
: to fix in a static condition
embalmer noun
embalmment noun

Examples of embalm in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Students could only practice embalming by traveling to local mortuaries, a logistical nightmare for commuters from as far away as the Bay Area and Bakersfield. Calista Oetama, Sacbee.com, 24 June 2025 The embalming technique was notable not just for its efficacy and ingredients, but for what can only be described (to put it delicately) as a rear-entry approach. Paul Smaglik, Discover Magazine, 2 May 2025 At the same time, the costs of gasoline, embalming chemicals and staffing have risen. Susan Shain, New York Times, 15 May 2025 According to an inspection report released Sept. 25 by the Minnesota Department of Health, Wagner stored applesauce in an embalming room at Wagner Funeral Home. Pioneer Press, Twin Cities, 8 Feb. 2025 See All Example Sentences for embalm

Word History

Etymology

Middle English embaumen, from Anglo-French enbaumer, enbasmer, from en- + basme balm — more at balm

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of embalm was in the 14th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Embalm.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/embalm. Accessed 25 Jul. 2025.

Kids Definition

embalm

verb
em·​balm im-ˈbä(l)m How to pronounce embalm (audio)
: to treat a dead body with special preparations to preserve it from decay
embalmer noun
embalmment noun

Medical Definition

embalm

transitive verb
em·​balm
im-ˈbä(l)m, New England also -ˈbȧm
: to treat (a dead body) so as to protect from decay
embalmer noun
embalmment noun

More from Merriam-Webster on embalm

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