andlát

Andlát is the Icelandic term for death, referring to the permanent cessation of vital biological functions in a living being. In medical, legal, and everyday usage, andlát denotes the event of dying and the transition from life to death. In clinical settings, different criteria of death are recognized: circulatory and respiratory death (cessation of heartbeat and breathing) and brain death (irreversible loss of all brain function). When death is determined, a physician usually signs a death certificate, and the body is released to a funeral director for preparation.

The legal framework surrounding andlát typically requires documentation and registration with public authorities. A death certificate documents the death and is needed for matters such as inheritance, burial or cremation, and the settlement of estates. In cases of unexpected or suspicious death, an autopsy or forensic investigation may be conducted.

Cultural and social aspects of andlát vary by community and religion. In Iceland, like many Nordic societies with Lutheran heritage, funeral rites commonly include a service, a period of visitation or wake, and a burial or cremation. Themes of remembrance, condolence, and grief support are part of the social response to andlát, and discussions about organ donation and palliative care are part of contemporary ethics and policy.

Etymology and usage: andlát is the standard Icelandic noun for death. It is used in formal and informal language to denote the end of life, and is distinct from related terms for dying or obituary.