Exhumation is a noun that refers to the act of digging up something, especially the dead body of a person. The word is pronounced as /ɛksˌhjuːˈmeɪʃən/ with emphasis on the second syllable. The first syllable "ex-" means out while the second syllable is derived from the Latin word "humare," which means to bury. The suffix "-tion" denotes an action or process. Therefore, exhumation means the process of digging up something buried, particularly corpses.
Exhumation refers to the act or process of removing a body or human remains from its burial site or tomb, typically for the purpose of further examination, identification, or reburial. This procedure is carried out under specific circumstances, such as when legal or forensic investigations require the examination of the deceased, or when there is a need for relocation due to land development, archaeological research, or religious reasons.
During exhumation, the burial site is carefully excavated to uncover the remains, which may be contained within a coffin, burial vault, or other structures. Special care and expertise are required to ensure the proper handling and preservation of the remains during this process. Depending on the circumstances and legal requirements, exhumation may involve the participation of various professionals, including forensic pathologists, archaeologists, grave diggers, and law enforcement authorities.
Exhumation can provide valuable information for various purposes. In legal cases, it can aid in determining the cause of death or gathering evidence relating to criminal investigations. In situations where the identity of the deceased is in question, exhumation may facilitate DNA analysis or other forensic techniques to establish or confirm identity. Additionally, exhumation can contribute to historical research and the conduct of archaeological studies by enabling the documentation and analysis of burial practices, cultural traditions, and human remains. Following the exhumation, the remains are commonly reburied in a designated location or returned to their original burial site, depending on the circumstances and respective regulations.
Removal of a corpse from the grave, disinterment.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The act of disinterring; the digging up of anything buried.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "exhumation" comes from the Latin word "exhumare", which is derived from the combination of "ex" (meaning "out of" or "from") and "humus" (meaning "earth" or "soil"). Therefore, "exhumare" translates to "to take out of the ground". The term eventually evolved into the Old French word "exhumer" and entered the English language in the late 15th century as "exhumation", referring to the act of digging up or removing a body from its burial place.