MUMMY Meaning and
Definition
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Mummy, in its most common usage, refers to a preserved human or animal corpse, usually characterized by the deliberate preservation of the body through desiccation (drying) and the application of specialized techniques. This process is often associated with ancient Egyptian culture, where mummification had religious and cultural significance. The word "mummy" is derived from the Middle English word "mumie," which originated from the Old French term "mumie" and ultimately from the Arabic word "mūmiyā," meaning "embalmed corpse."
In ancient Egypt, mummification involved a series of meticulous steps, including removal of internal organs, dehydration of the body, and wrapping it in multiple layers of linen bandages. Egyptians believed that preserving the physical body would ensure the survival of the soul in the afterlife. However, the practice of mummification was not unique to Egypt, as various cultures throughout history, such as the Incas, Peruvians, and certain South American tribes, also practiced mummification.
Beyond its historical and cultural context, the term "mummy" can also refer to a person's mother, particularly in British English. It is a casual and affectionate term, often used by children or in intimate conversations. Additionally, "mummy" is used in some contexts to describe an object, such as a jar or container, that resembles the shape or appearance of a mummy or has some connection to ancient Egyptian culture.
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A dead body embalmed after the manner of the anc. Egyptians; a dead body preserved from decay by any means; a liquor which distils from mummies; a gum; a sort of wax used in the grafting of trees: to beat to a mummy, to beat soundly.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Top Common Misspellings for MUMMY *
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Other Common Misspellings for MUMMY
Etymology of MUMMY
The word "mummy" comes from the medieval Latin word "mumia" or "mumia vera", which originally referred to a type of bituminous substance used in medicine. This Latin term was derived from the Persian word "mumiya" or "mum" meaning "wax", which referred specifically to a resinous substance derived from the embalmed bodies of the Pharaohs in ancient Egypt. Over time, the term "mummy" shifted in meaning to specifically refer to preserved bodies in ancient Egyptian burial practices.
Idioms with the word MUMMY
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a mummy's boy
A man who is overly dependent on his mother, seeking her approval and guidance in decision-making and lacking independence.
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mummy's boy
A "mummy's boy" is a man who is excessively attached to his mother and overly dependent on her for emotional or financial support.
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a mummy's/mother's boy
"A mummy's/mother's boy" is an idiom used to describe a man, typically an adult, who is overly dependent on his mother and seeks her approval and guidance in all aspects of his life. This man may prioritize his mother's wishes and opinions over those of others, and may struggle to make independent decisions or take responsibility for his own actions.
Similar spelling words for MUMMY
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