Archival: meaning, definitions and examples

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archival

 

[ ɑːrˈkaɪ.vəl ]

Adjective
Context #1 | Adjective

related to preservation

Archival refers to materials, documents, or collections that are preserved for their historical significance. These items are often kept in archives for research and reference purposes. Archival materials can include anything from photographs and manuscripts to digital records. The function of archival materials is to ensure that important information is safeguarded and made accessible for future generations.

Synonyms

documentary, historical, preservative

Examples of usage

  • The library offers archival access to historical documents.
  • She works in the archival department of the museum.
  • They digitized the archival footage for easier access.
  • Archival quality paper is essential for preserving prints.

Translations

Translations of the word "archival" in other languages:

🇵🇹 arquivístico

🇮🇳 आर्काइव

🇩🇪 archivisch

🇮🇩 arsip

🇺🇦 архівний

🇵🇱 archiwalny

🇯🇵 アーカイブの

🇫🇷 archival

🇪🇸 archivístico

🇹🇷 arşivsel

🇰🇷 아카이브의

🇸🇦 أرشيفي

🇨🇿 archivní

🇸🇰 archiválny

🇨🇳 档案的

🇸🇮 arhivski

🇮🇸 arkiv

🇰🇿 архивтік

🇬🇪 არქივული

🇦🇿 arxiv

🇲🇽 archivístico

Etymology

The word 'archival' originates from the mid-19th century, deriving from the word 'archive.' The term 'archive' itself comes from the Greek word 'arkheion,' which referred to the building where public records are kept and the records themselves. In ancient times, archives were maintained by governments and institutions to store important documents and sensitive information. As preservation practices evolved, the term 'archival' began to describe the quality and characteristics of materials that are ideal for long-term storage. Today, 'archival' implies a commitment to safeguarding cultural heritage and ensuring that vital information remains unchanged and accessible. The rise of technology has also expanded the understanding of archival, incorporating digital media into the preservation discourse.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #14,204, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.