Definition of postmortemnext
as in posthumous
occurring after one's death postmortem tests on the brain tissue of people who had been suffering from Alzheimer's disease

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postmortem

2 of 2

noun

as in autopsy
examination of a dead body especially to find out the cause of death the postmortem revealed that the cause of death had been an undetected heart defect

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Example Sentences

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.
Recent Examples of postmortem
Adjective
Although treatments for these disorders remain elusive, postmortem brain tissue offers a key resource for unlocking possible solutions. Emily Toomey, Smithsonian, 21 Aug. 2019 Nearby, the researchers also found skulls apparently stuck together with mortar—remnants of one of the towers flanking the tzompantli, where most skulls once exhibited on its posts ended their postmortem journey. Lizzie Wade, Science | AAAS, 21 June 2018
Noun
The Sheriff's Office said a forensic postmortem exam and toxicology test was performed and the investigation was being conducted by county coroner's office and the CHP. Carlos E. Castañeda, CBS News, 18 June 2026 The cairn’s layers indicate they were not buried at the same time, however, and their bodies did not receive the same postmortem treatment. Jennifer Ouellette, ArsTechnica, 11 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for postmortem
Recent Examples of Synonyms for postmortem
Adjective
  • There are a few posthumous Sam Neill projects forthcoming, but this could end up being his last impactful role.
    Brian Tallerico, Vulture, 14 July 2026
  • Since Kahlo became a posthumous sensation, her works have attracted deep-pocket collectors, among them Madonna.
    Los Angeles Times, Los Angeles Times, 14 July 2026
Noun
  • The sheriff also said investigators are awaiting the state medical examiner’s findings, including toxicology results, while Wells’ family is pursuing their own independent autopsy.
    Dave Quinn, PEOPLE, 14 July 2026
  • Adams' father, Juanito Adams, told South African TV news station eNCA on Sunday that the family were waiting for the results of an autopsy and had not yet made any funeral plans.
    ABC News, ABC News, 13 July 2026
Adjective
  • The impact is already being felt across various regions, from a delayed start to the Indian monsoon to a temporary halt to Peru’s fishing season.
    Bloomberg, Fortune, 21 June 2026
  • That meant a delayed return to full activities.
    Alec Lewis, New York Times, 9 June 2026

Cite this Entry

“Postmortem.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/postmortem. Accessed 19 Jul. 2026.

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