Part of Speech

Noun

Pronunciation

/kɔːrps/

Definitions

• The dead body of a human being.
• The body of an animal, typically after it has died.
• A term used metaphorically to describe something that is lifeless, decayed, or no longer functional.

Usage Examples

• "The police discovered the corpse in the abandoned house."
• "After the storm, the corpse of the ship was found washed up on the shore."
• "The company was a financial corpse, its assets nearly depleted."

Etymology

Middle English: From the Old French "corps," meaning body, derived from the Latin "corpus," meaning body or substance. The word has evolved over centuries to specifically refer to a dead body.

Synonyms

• Body
• Remains
• Cadaver
• Carcass
• Dead body

Antonyms

• Life
• Living being
• Alive
• Entity

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

The pronunciation of "corpse" may vary in different English dialects. In some regions, the "r" sound is more pronounced, while in others, it is softened. In non-native languages, the pronunciation may vary based on local phonetic rules.

Historical Usage

The word "corpse" has been in use since the 14th century, originally derived from the Latin "corpus" meaning "body." The term was primarily used in the context of the dead body of humans, and over time, it became more widely applied to the remains of any organism. It has been used in various legal, medical, and literary contexts throughout history.

Cultural Nuances

In many cultures, the handling of corpses is a highly sensitive subject, often involving religious or cultural rituals. For instance, certain cultures emphasize the sanctity and respect for the dead, while others may view the handling of a corpse as a scientific or medical procedure. In literature and art, the concept of a "corpse" often symbolizes death, decay, or the transient nature of life.

More Information

The word "corpse" is frequently used in medical and forensic contexts to refer to a deceased human body. It can also be used metaphorically to describe something that is no longer functional, for instance, a "corporate corpse" to refer to a failed company. The handling of a corpse is a regulated practice in many societies, involving legal and ethical considerations regarding autopsies, funerals, and burial practices.