embalm Meaning, Definition & Usage

Em*balm" transitive verb

Etymology

F. embaumer; pref. em- (L. in) + baume balm. See Balm.

Wordforms

imperfect & past participle Embalmed ; present participle & verbal noun Embalming

Definitions

1. To anoint all over with balm; especially, to preserve from decay by means of balm or other aromatic oils, or spices; to fill or impregnate (a dead body), with aromatics and drugs that it may resist putrefaction.

   Joseph commanded his servants, the physicians, to embalm is father; and the physicians embalmed Israel. Gem. l. 2.

2. To fill or imbue with sweet odor; to perfume.

   With fresh dews embalmed the earth. Milton.

3. To preserve from decay or oblivion as if with balm; to perpetuate in remembrance.

   Those tears eternal that embalm the dead. Pope.