kadaver

Kadaver is the German term for a dead body, typically referring to a human body used for medical, educational, or forensic purposes. In German-speaking contexts, a Kadaver often denotes a body that has died and is available for study in anatomy laboratories, research, or post-mortem examination. In English, the closest equivalent is cadaver, though usage varies by country and discipline; corpse is a more general term, and body is the most neutral.

Etymology and usage notes: Kadaver is borrowed from the French cadavre, which ultimately derives from Latin cadāver. In German, Kadaver can apply to humans and, in some cases, to animal carcasses, but it is most commonly encountered in medical and forensic settings. The term emphasizes a body preserved for examination rather than merely a recently deceased individual in everyday news or discussion.

Context and handling: Kadaveric material is managed in controlled environments such as university anatomy departments, medical examiners’ offices, and morgues. Common activities include dissection, autopsy, and trunking of specimens for educational or research purposes. Preservation methods—such as refrigeration or embalming—are employed to slow decomposition and facilitate study. The use of a Kadaver is governed by ethical guidelines, informed consent where applicable, legal regulations, and respect for the deceased and cultural sensitivities surrounding death and body disposal.

See also: Cadaver, Corpse, Autopsy, Anatomical gift, Forensic examination.