What term refers to the act of preparing the deceased for burial?

The act of preparing the deceased for burial involves several processes, including washing, dressing, and applying cosmetics to create a peaceful appearance. This comprehensive preparation is termed “mortuary preparation,” which encompasses all activities performed by funeral service professionals to ready the deceased for their final disposition. It ensures that the deceased is treated with dignity and respect, enhancing the experience for grieving family members during viewings or services.

Embalming, while a component of mortuary preparation, specifically refers to the chemical preservation of the body. It is just one part of the broader preparation process. Cremation is the method of disposing of a body through burning, and interment refers to the burial of remains in the ground. Each of these terms describes distinct practices within the funeral service profession, but mortuary preparation is the most inclusive term for the overall act of readying the deceased for the final goodbye.