Definition

Noun: * A jar used in ancient Egypt to contain the internal organs (entrails) of a deceased person that were removed during the mummification process. These jars were often part of a set of four, each associated with a specific organ and protected by a different deity.

Examples of Usage

• Noun:
  • The archaeologists discovered a set of four canopic jars in the tomb.
  • Each canopic jar had a lid shaped like the head of a protective god.
  • The liver was placed inside the canopic jar with the human-headed lid.

Advanced Usage

• "Canopic chest": A specific box or container designed to hold a set of four canopic jars.
  • The alabaster canopic chest was found next to the sarcophagus.
• The term is used almost exclusively in the context of Egyptology and discussions of ancient Egyptian burial practices.

Variants and Related Words

• Canopic (adjective): Relating to these jars.
  • The canopic equipment was intricately decorated.
• Viscera jars: A more general, descriptive term for the same objects.

Synonyms

• Viscera jar
• Burial jar (in this specific Egyptian context)

Related Terms (Not Phrasal Verbs or Idioms)

• Mummification: The preservation process during which the organs were removed and stored in canopic jars.
• Sarcophagus: The stone coffin, often placed in the same tomb as the canopic jars.

Noun

1. a jar used in ancient Egypt to contain entrails of an embalmed body