c.1500, from L., probably from cadere "to fall" (see case (1)), a metaphor, in Latin, for "to die," also source (through comb. form -cida) of the -cide in suicide, homicide, etc.
Main Entry: ca·dav·er Pronunciation: k&-'dav-&r Function: noun Inflected Form: pluralca·dav·ersalsoca·dav·era/-&-r&/ : a dead body; specifically: one intended for use in medical education or research —ca·dav·er·ic/-(&-)rik/adjective