postmortem
|post/mor/tem|
B2
🇺🇸
/poʊstˈmɔːrtəm/
🇬🇧
/pəʊstˈmɔːtəm/
after death
Etymology
Etymology Information
'postmortem' originates from Latin, specifically the phrase 'post mortem,' where 'post' meant 'after' and 'mortem' meant 'death.'
Historical Evolution
'post mortem' transformed into the English word 'postmortem' and has been used in medical contexts since the 18th century.
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'after death,' and this meaning has largely remained the same in modern usage.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
an examination of a dead body to determine the cause of death; an autopsy.
The postmortem revealed the cause of death was a heart attack.
Synonyms
Adjective 1
occurring or done after death.
The postmortem analysis provided insights into the patient's condition.
Synonyms
Idioms
Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:45