The Complete Vocabulary Builder Workbook

autopsy

IPA

Dictionary definition of autopsy

A medical procedure that involves the examination of a deceased person's body in order to determine the cause of death.
"The autopsy revealed that the victim had been poisoned."

Detailed meaning of autopsy

Autopsies are typically performed by a medical examiner or a forensic pathologist, who will examine the body both externally and internally to look for signs of injury or disease.

The examination process includes visual inspection of the body, and internal organs, taking samples of blood, urine, and other bodily fluids, and may also include the examination of toxicology and other lab results. The results of an autopsy can help identify the cause of death, which can be helpful for a variety of reasons, such as to assist with criminal investigations, to determine if death was due to natural causes or if there was any form of foul play.

Autopsies can also be used to identify any underlying medical conditions that may have contributed to the person's death, and can provide important information for the family of the deceased, as well as for medical research.

It is important to note that in some cases, the family of the deceased may have the right to request an autopsy or to refuse one, depending on the laws and regulations of the specific jurisdiction.

Example sentences containing autopsy

1. The autopsy revealed the cause of death to be a heart attack.
2. The forensic team performed an autopsy on the body.
3. The results of the autopsy are being used as evidence in the trial.
4. An autopsy is required by law in cases of sudden or suspicious death.
5. The autopsy report showed that the victim had been stabbed multiple times.
6. The autopsy revealed that the death was a homicide.

History and etymology of autopsy

The noun 'autopsy' has its etymological origins in Greek. It is derived from the Greek word 'autopsia,' where 'auto' means 'self' and 'opsis' means 'sight' or 'view.' In ancient Greece, 'autopsia' referred to the act of seeing with one's own eyes or firsthand observation. Over time, this term came to be associated with the practice of examining a deceased person's body to determine the cause of death. In English, 'autopsy' entered the language in the 17th century, retaining its original sense of a post-mortem examination conducted by medical professionals. The etymology of 'autopsy' reflects its historical emphasis on the direct observation and examination of the deceased, allowing for a firsthand view of the body's internal structures and conditions to ascertain the cause of death.

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Further usage examples of autopsy

1. The pathologist conducted the autopsy and examined the internal organs.
2. The family requested an autopsy to determine the cause of death.
3. The autopsy was performed to determine if the death was accidental or intentional.
4. The findings of the autopsy are being used to help solve the case.
5. The autopsy showed that the victim had died of natural causes.
6. The forensic team conducted an exhaustive autopsy to determine the exact cause of death in the complex criminal case.
7. In cases of suspected medical malpractice, an autopsy can provide critical evidence to support legal claims.
8. Autopsies are a vital tool in medical research, offering insights into diseases and helping improve patient care.
9. The grieving family consented to an autopsy to gain closure and better understand their loved one's sudden passing.
10. The detailed autopsy report played a crucial role in the murder investigation, providing crucial evidence for the prosecution.
11. Despite initial doubts, the second autopsy confirmed the initial findings, leaving no doubt about the cause of death.
12. The skilled pathologist carefully conducted the autopsy, meticulously documenting every observation to ensure accuracy.
13. Autopsies are often a necessary part of public health investigations to identify and contain outbreaks of infectious diseases.
14. The coroner's office routinely performs autopsies to fulfill legal requirements and provide families with answers in cases of sudden death.
15. Autopsies can reveal underlying health conditions that may have gone undiagnosed during a person's life, potentially benefiting their surviving family members.
16. The autopsy room is equipped with state-of-the-art technology to facilitate precise examinations and minimize contamination.
17. In high-profile cases, the results of an autopsy can have a significant impact on public opinion and legal proceedings.
18. The medical examiner explained the autopsy process to the grieving family, addressing their concerns and providing reassurance.
19. Autopsy reports are reviewed by medical experts and can be used to improve healthcare policies and practices.
20. The comprehensive autopsy findings were presented in court, serving as a critical piece of evidence in the criminal trial.