A mummy is a person or animal whose soft tissue has been preserved, either intentionally or unintentionally, by exposure to chemicals, extreme cold, very low humidity, or lack of air. In ancient Egypt, mummification was a method of embalming or treating the dead body, which was practiced throughout most of early Egyptian history. The earliest mummies from prehistoric times were probably accidental, preserved by dry sand and air. However, by the Fourth and Fifth Dynasties, Egyptians began to mummify the dead intentionally, and the practice continued and developed for well over 2,000 years.

The mummification process involved removing the internal organs, treating the body with resin, and wrapping it in linen bandages. The mummy was then placed in a coffin and buried in an elaborate tomb. The pharaohs of Egypt were usually mummified and buried in such tombs, as were members of the nobility and officials. However, the process was expensive and beyond the means of many.

In addition to humans, the ancient Egyptians mummified many animals, including dogs, cats, and birds. They also mummified food, such as bread and fruit, so that the deceased would have something to eat in the afterlife. The Egyptians believed that the mummys spirit would need its senses in the afterlife, so they performed a ceremony called the "Opening of the Mouth" to restore the mummys five senses.

In summary, a mummy is a preserved person or animal, and in ancient Egypt, mummification was a method of embalming or treating the dead body that was practiced for over 2,000 years.