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embalm

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To embalm is defined as to treat a corpse with a special preservative fluid to prevent decay, or to preserve something in its original state, or to give a pleasant fragrance.

(verb)

When an undertaker injects a fluid to preserve a corpse for a funeral showing, this is an example of when he embalms.
When you preserve the old code of ethics of a club that has been in existence for a long time and you do not allow the rules to change, this is an example of when you embalm.
When lilacs fill the air with a sweet smell, this is an example of when they embalm.

See embalm in Webster's New World College Dictionary

transitive verb

to treat (a dead body) with various chemicals, usually after removing the viscera, etc., to keep it from decaying rapidly
to preserve in memory
to make fragrant; perfume

Origin: ME embaumen < OFr embaumer: see en- & balm

Related Forms:

embalmer noun
embalmment noun

See embalm in American Heritage Dictionary 4

transitive verb em·balmed, em·balm·ing, em·balms

To treat (a corpse) with preservatives in order to prevent decay.
To protect from change or oblivion; preserve or fix: “A precedent embalms a principle” (Benjamin Disraeli).
To impart fragrance to; perfume: Spicy aromas embalmed the air.

Origin:

Origin: Middle English embaumen

Origin: , from Old French embasmer

Origin: : en-, in; see en-¹

Origin: + basme, balm; see balm

Related Forms: