Part of Speech

Verb

Pronunciation

/ɪnˈtuːm/

Definitions

• 1. To place a dead body in a tomb or grave.
• 2. To enclose or bury something, especially in a way that makes it inaccessible or hidden.

Usage Examples

1. The ancient Egyptians used to entomb their pharaohs in elaborate pyramids.

2. The archaeologists carefully entombed the artifacts they had discovered to protect them from further damage.

3. The treasure was entombed beneath the old castle, never to be found again.

Etymology

The word "entomb" comes from Middle English, derived from the Old French "entomber," which means "to place in a tomb." The word itself is formed from the prefix "en-" meaning "into" or "within" and "tomb," referring to a burial place.

Synonyms

• Buried
• Inhumed
• Interred
• Enshrined
• Sealed

Antonyms

• Exhume
• Uncover
• Reveal
• Expose

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

• English (US): /ɪnˈtuːm/
• English (UK): /ɪnˈtuːm/
• Spanish: /en-teˈrɑr/
• French: /ɑ̃tɛʁe/
• Italian: /sepːelˈliːɾe/

Historical Usage

The word "entomb" has been used since the 14th century to refer to the burial or interment of the dead. It is often used in a figurative sense to describe the act of enclosing something in an inaccessible place, similar to how a body is placed in a tomb. The term has maintained its meaning in both literal and metaphorical contexts over the centuries.

Cultural Nuances

Throughout history, entombing has been associated with various burial practices across cultures. In Ancient Egypt, the process of entombing the dead was considered a sacred ritual, often involving elaborate tombs and grave goods. In modern contexts, "entomb" may also be used figuratively to describe the concealment of something, like a secret or a treasure.

More Information

Entombment is a practice that transcends time, found in cultures around the world. From the stone tombs of early human civilizations to the grand mausoleums of modern monarchs, the act of entombing the dead is a reflection of society's reverence for the deceased. The word "entomb" encapsulates this practice, symbolizing both the physical act of burial and the metaphorical notion of entrapment or concealment.