corpse
Definitions
The dead body of a human being
尸体，死尸
Root Breakdown
Root-derivedStraight from Latin corpus (body), narrowed over time to a *dead* body. Unlike its twin 'corps,' the p and s here are both pronounced: /kɔːps/.
Root corp still carries 11 more wordsUsage Guide
Pronunciation trap: corpse /kɔːps/ pronounces the p and s; corps /kɔː/ is silent (French). corpse = dead human body only — for an animal, use 'carcass'; for a body donated to science, 'cadaver' is more clinical.
Example Sentences
- 1.
Police discovered a corpse hidden in the abandoned warehouse.
- 2.
The corpse was identified through dental records.
Easily Confused
corpse vs corps vs corpus — all from Latin corpus but distinct: corpse /kɔːps/ = a dead human body (ps pronounced); corps /kɔː/ = an organized/military group (ps silent, French); corpus /ˈkɔːpəs/ = a body of texts or data. Say the ps aloud → you mean the dead one.