Source : Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913)

Ante mortem \An`te mor"tem\ [L.]
   Before death; -- generally used adjectivelly; as, an
   ante-mortem statement; ante-mortem examination.

   Note: 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.