Annals: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• '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.

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.

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

• ...
• 12194 husbandry
• 12195 longevity
• 12196 sponsorship
• 12197 annals
• 12198 ginger
• 12199 impure
• 12200 layered
• ...