POSTHUMOUS Meaning and
Definition
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Posthumous is an adjective that describes something that occurs or is published after the death of the person it concerns. It refers to anything that takes place or is released after an individual's demise, particularly their work, achievements, or events related to their life. The term originates from the Latin word "posthumus," meaning "born after the father's death," and it is generally used to clarify that the subject matter took place or was produced subsequent to the death of the person being discussed.
In literature, posthumous works can include books, poems, or essays that were written by an author before their death but were published afterwards. Similarly, in art, posthumous exhibitions or displays occur when an artist's works are exhibited after they have passed away. Posthumous awards are honors presented to individuals who have made significant contributions to a particular field but have passed away before receiving recognition for their work.
The term can also be used to describe a posthumous child, which refers to someone who is born after their father's death. This usage is less common, but it highlights the original meaning of the word. Overall, posthumous implies events or creations that occur after death, serving as a means to acknowledge and remember the deceased's legacy and contributions to the world.
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Occurring after the death of the producer; born after the death of the father.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
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Born after the death of a father, as a child; published after the death of an author, as a work; after one's decease, as fame.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for POSTHUMOUS
Etymology of POSTHUMOUS
The word "posthumous" originated from the Latin term "posthumus", which was derived from "postumus". It primarily meant "born after the father's death" or "born after the person's death". The root of the Latin word is believed to be the combination of "post", meaning "after", and "humus", which referred to "burial" or "ground". Thus, "posthumus" literally translates to "after burial" or "after death". The term was later adopted into Middle English as "posthumous" during the 15th century, retaining its original meaning. Over time, "posthumous" came to describe anything that occurs or is published after the death of the person to whom it is related, such as posthumous works, posthumous fame, or posthumous awards.
Similar spelling words for POSTHUMOUS
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