rigor mortis

rigor mortis Definition

rigor mor·tis (rig′ər môr′tis; occas. rī′gôr)

noun

the progressive stiffening of the muscles that occurs several hours after death as a result of the coagulation of the muscle protein

Etymology: ModL, stiffness of death

rigor mortis Usage Examples

Converse of object

have: No one has ever had rigor mortis on DNP or even severe cramping that has ever been documented.

Adjective modifier

usual: They are in a state of extreme contraction, far exceeding the usual rigor mortis.

Noun used with modifier

description: What are the changes that take place in the human body after death which account for the description rigor mortis?

Browse dictionary entries near rigor mortis