corpse

[kawrps]

noun

1. a dead body, usually of a human being.

   Synonyms: cadaver

2. something no longer useful or viable.

   rusting corpses of old cars.

3. Obsolete.,  a human or animal body, whether alive or dead.

corpse

/ kɔːps /

noun

1. a dead body, esp of a human being; cadaver

verb

1. slang,  theatre to laugh or cause to laugh involuntarily or inopportunely while on stage

Word History and Origins

Origin of corpse¹

First recorded in 1225–75; Middle English corps; originally spelling variant of cors ( corse ) but the p is now sounded

Word History and Origins

Origin of corpse¹

C14: from Old French corps body, from Latin corpus body

Synonym Study

See body.

Example Sentences

A computer scientist at a university in the north of England is studying an image of a corpse - attempting to solve a mystery that has gripped the Middle East for nearly 50 years.

From BBC

Since at least the 19th Century, when the teaching of medicine expanded, some scientifically-minded people have rather liked the idea that their corpse could be used to train doctors.

From BBC

“Woke executives killed it, wrapped the corpse in a rainbow flag, and then made it do a little puppet show in New York City for the entertainment of all their woke little friends.”

From Los Angeles Times

He ordered that the corpse be released to the family for reburial at a place of their choice.

From BBC

She has made her own pact with the insects, asking them to restore the life of her stillborn baby, whose corpse she has held onto in the hope that the cicadas will answer her prayer.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• body 
• cadaver 
• carcass 
• remains