Dictionary entry

Ante mortem

Webster's Dictionary 1913

‖An′te mor″tem (?). Before death; — generally used adjectivelly; as, an ante-mortem statement; ante-mortem examination.

☞ The ante-mortem statement, or dying declaration made in view of death, by one injured, as to the cause and manner of the injury, is often receivable in evidence against one charged with causing the death.