Em*balm" (?), v. t. [imp. & p. p. Embalmed (?); p. pr. & vb. n. Embalming.] [F. embaumer; pref. em- (L. in) + baume balm. See Balm.]

1.

To anoint all over with balm; especially, to preserve from decay by means of balm or other aromatic oils, or spices; to fill or impregnate (a dead body), with aromatics and drugs that it may resist putrefaction.

Joseph commanded his servants, the physicians, to embalm is father; and the physicians embalmed Israel. Gem. l. 2.

2.

To fill or imbue with sweet odor; to perfume.

With fresh dews embalmed the earth. Milton.

3.

To preserve from decay or oblivion as if with balm; to perpetuate in remembrance.

Those tears eternal that embalm the dead. Pope.

 

© Webster 1913.