Mummify

Mummify is a verb that describes the process of preserving a dead body by embalming it and wrapping it in bandages. This practice was most famously carried out by the ancient Egyptians, who believed that preserving the body was essential for the deceased's journey into the afterlife. The mummification process involved removing internal organs, drying the body with natron salt, and then anointing it with oils and resins. Finally, the body was wrapped in linen strips, often with amulets placed within the layers.

While the ancient Egyptians are the most well-known practitioners, mummification has also occurred in other cultures. Natural mummification can happen in environments that are extremely dry, cold, or oxygen-deprived, leading to the preservation of bodies without human intervention. Examples of naturally mummified remains have been found in deserts, peat bogs, and glaciers. These natural mummies provide invaluable insights into the diet, health, and lifestyles of people from ancient times. The term "mummify" can also be used figuratively to describe something that is preserved or kept intact for a long time, though its primary meaning relates to the preservation of deceased individuals.