Definition: The word "posthumous" is a term used in medical terminology to indicate that a patient has been dead for some time, but they are alive today due to their actions or effects on others. In simple terms, it means that the death of an individual was not recorded as part of their official life history and therefore could not be accurately counted or measured. Instead, the term "posthumous" is used to indicate that the individual's medical history cannot be traced back to their birth year due to the time lapse between when they died (usually due to illness) and their death anniversary. The term "posthumous" is commonly used in medicine to describe individuals who have passed away but whose actions or effects are still being felt by others, such as volunteers or non-combatants. It is not uncommon for medical professionals to refer to individuals who have been posthumously recognized for their contributions or achievements, and it can be a way of acknowledging their life and impact on society. In summary, the word "posthumous" is used in medical terminology to indicate that an individual has passed away but their actions are still being felt by others.