posthumous

Posthumous is an adjective describing events or objects that occur after a person has died, such as publications, awards, or recognitions. The term comes from Latin posthumus, literally after burial, from post- meaning after and humus meaning ground.

Posthumous publications are works released after a creator’s death, including novels, poems, music, films, or research. Often editors, heirs, or legal executors oversee publication, which can raise questions about authorship, rights, and control of royalties. In some cases a work is completed or curated posthumously, resulting in distinctions between finished and unfinished pieces and affecting attribution.

Posthumous recognition and awards are granted to individuals after death to acknowledge contributions or achievements. These can take the form of decorations, prizes, or memorial honors, and they serve as formal acknowledgment when the person is no longer alive to receive them.

In biology and family context, a posthumous child is a child born after the death of a parent. The term is also used in medical and forensic settings to describe findings or events that are identified after death, such as autopsy results or postmortem analyses.

Legal and ethical considerations often accompany posthumous works and recognitions. Copyright, royalties, control of the estate, and attribution can vary by jurisdiction and by the terms of a will or contract, affecting how a posthumous item is managed and shared with heirs or the public.

See also: posthumous publication, posthumous award.

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