Antiquities: meaning, definitions and examples

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antiquities

 

[ ænˈtɪkwɪtiz ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

study of ancient artifacts

Antiquities refer to ancient artifacts, historical objects, or works of art that are considered valuable due to their age, historical significance, or cultural importance. These artifacts can include pottery, sculptures, coins, jewelry, and manuscripts. The field of antiquities involves the study, preservation, and collection of these ancient items.

Synonyms

artifacts, relics, treasures.

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Word Description / Examples
antiquities

Refer to ancient objects, especially those of historical or cultural significance. Often used in the context of museums, archaeology, or history.

  • The museum has a remarkable collection of Egyptian antiquities.
  • Scholars studied the antiquities to learn more about ancient civilizations.
artifacts

Refers to items made or used by people in the past. Commonly used in archaeological, historical, and cultural discussions.

  • The archaeologist uncovered several artifacts from the prehistoric site.
  • These artifacts reveal much about the daily lives of early settlers.
relics

Refers to surviving items from the past, often with a religious or sentimental significance. Used in religious, historical, or personal contexts.

  • The church houses relics believed to be from the early saints.
  • She treasured the old watch as a relic of her grandfather.
treasures

Refers to valuable or precious items, often associated with wealth, historical value, or a sense of discovery. Used in both literal and metaphorical contexts.

  • The pirate ship was rumored to be full of hidden treasures.
  • She found treasures among the antique store’s collection.

Examples of usage

  • The museum houses a collection of Greek antiquities dating back to the 5th century BC.
  • Archaeologists are conducting excavations to uncover more antiquities from the ancient civilization.
  • The trade of illicit antiquities has led to the loss of valuable cultural heritage.
  • The study of Egyptian antiquities provides insights into the daily life of ancient civilizations.
  • Scholars analyze Roman antiquities to understand the political and social structures of the time.

Translations

Translations of the word "antiquities" in other languages:

🇵🇹 antiguidades

🇮🇳 पुरावशेष

🇩🇪 Antiquitäten

🇮🇩 barang antik

🇺🇦 антикваріат

🇵🇱 antyki

🇯🇵 骨董品

🇫🇷 antiquités

🇪🇸 antigüedades

🇹🇷 antikalar

🇰🇷 골동품

🇸🇦 الآثار القديمة

🇨🇿 starožitnosti

🇸🇰 starožitnosti

🇨🇳 古董

🇸🇮 starine

🇮🇸 forngripir

🇰🇿 көне заттар

🇬🇪 ანტიკვარიატი

🇦🇿 antikitlər

🇲🇽 antigüedades

Etymology

The word 'antiquities' originates from the Latin word 'antiquitas', meaning 'ancient things' or 'ancient times'. It has been used in English since the late 14th century to refer to ancient objects or artifacts. The study of antiquities has played a crucial role in understanding human history, culture, and civilizations throughout the ages.

See also: antiquated, antiques, antiquity.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #14,121, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.