mummy
|mum/my|
B1
/ˈmʌmi/
preserved body; mother
Etymology
Etymology Information
'mummy' originates from Medieval Latin, specifically the word 'mumia,' where 'mumia' meant 'embalmed body.'
Historical Evolution
'mumia' changed from the Arabic word 'mūmiyā' and eventually became the modern English word 'mummy'.
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'embalmed body,' but over time it evolved to also mean 'mother' in British informal usage.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
a body of a human being or animal that has been ceremonially preserved by removal of the internal organs, treatment with natron and resin, and wrapping in bandages.
The ancient Egyptians are famous for their mummies.
Synonyms
Idioms
Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:40