Annals Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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annals

[หˆanlz ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

historical records

A record of events arranged in yearly sequence, often with a summary of the events of each year. Annals are typically used in historical research to provide a chronological account of past events.

Synonyms

archives, chronicles, records.

Examples of usage

  • The annals of the Roman Empire provide valuable insights into ancient history.
  • The annals of the local newspaper document the town's development over the years.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Historical Significance

  • Ancient cultures, like the Romans and Greeks, maintained annals to document significant events and rulers' reigns.
  • In the context of the Roman Empire, annals served as official records that provided insight into political and military affairs.
  • The 'Annals of Tacitus' is a prominent historical work that chronicles Roman history with deep political analysis.

Literature

  • Many historical novels and dramas draw on annals for accuracy, weaving real events into their narratives.
  • Some famous literary works feature historical figures based on accounts found in annals, blending fiction with documented history.
  • Annals as a literary form often showcase the style of the time period they represent, making them valuable for understanding historical contexts.

Cultural Impact

  • Different cultures have their own forms of annals, like the 'Chronicles of Japan,' which serves a similar purpose as annals do in the West.
  • Annals have inspired modern history writing and are still referenced in chronicling events globally, from community histories to national archives.
  • Various religions utilize annals to track significant spiritual events, illustrating the interplay between history and belief.

Science

  • In scientific research, 'annals' can refer to the chronological publication of findings, marking advancements in various fields.
  • The concept of 'annals' extends to journals where scholars publish significant studies, effectively creating a historical record for their disciplines.
  • Environmental science often employs annals to document changes over time, helping researchers understand trends and patterns.

Origin of 'annals'

Main points about word origin

  • 'Annals' comes from the Latin word 'annalis,' meaning 'of the year,' which reflects its yearly record-keeping nature.
  • The word evolved from the Latin term for a year ('annus'), showing how history is often recorded on a yearly basis.
  • In medieval times, annals were crucial for documenting events in monasteries, linking them closely to religious practices.

The word 'annals' comes from the Latin word 'annales', which means 'yearly records'. In ancient Rome, annals were official records of events kept by priests or officials. Over time, the term 'annals' has come to refer to any chronological record of events, not just those kept on a yearly basis. The use of annals as a historical tool dates back centuries, with various civilizations keeping detailed records of important events and developments.


Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #12,197, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.