autopsy
The term autopsy is derived from the Greek term autopsia, meaning “the act of seeing with one’s own eyes.” An autopsy is the detailed medical examination and/or dissection of a dead body to determine the cause of death or for any scientific and medical purpose. Autopsies are commonly performed to determine disease, injury, and cause of death of an individual in a criminal investigation. Autopsies result in an autopsy report, which may be used in court. An autopsy is also referred to as a post mortem or a postmortem examination. See also: autopsy rights.
[Last reviewed in September of 2026 by the Wex Definitions Team]
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