embalmer
Meaning of embalmer: An embalmer is a trained professional who chemically preserves and prepares a deceased body, most often for viewing and burial.
Definition of embalmer
An embalmer is a person trained to preserve and prepare a deceased body, most commonly to delay decomposition and maintain a natural appearance for viewing before burial or another form of final disposition. The process typically involves replacing the body's blood with a chemical preservative solution, most often containing formaldehyde, introduced through the circulatory system.
Beyond preservation, an embalmer's work often includes restorative and cosmetic tasks, such as setting the features and applying makeup, intended to give the body a peaceful, natural appearance for those attending a viewing or funeral service.
Embalming is a licensed occupation in many jurisdictions, typically requiring specific mortuary science training and an examination, reflecting both the technical skill involved and the chemical safety precautions required when working with preservative solutions.
Used in a sentence
The embalmer prepared the body for the family's viewing prior to the funeral service.
Good to know
Modern embalming relies on chemical preservative solutions rather than the aromatic balms and resins the term historically referenced, though the underlying goal of delaying decomposition remains the same.
Word origin
Where “embalmer” comes from
Formed from Old French embaumer, ultimately from Latin balsamum and Greek balsamon, meaning balm or aromatic resin, reflecting the aromatic preservative substances originally used in the process.