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Artefacts Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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artefacts

[ˈɑːtɪfækts ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

in history

Objects made by humans, usually for a specific purpose, that are of historical or cultural interest.

Synonyms

antiques, artworks, relics.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
artefacts

Objects made by humans in the past, especially those of historical or cultural significance.

  • The museum's collection includes ancient artefacts from the Roman Empire
relics

Objects surviving from an earlier time, often with religious or sentimental value. Commonly considered sacred or holy.

  • The church displays relics of saints that attract many pilgrims each year
antiques

Old and valuable objects, often collected for their beauty, craftsmanship, or historical interest.

  • She loves shopping for antiques at local flea markets and auction houses
artworks

Pieces of art, such as paintings, drawings, sculptures, or other artistic creations, typically valued for their aesthetic quality.

  • The gallery showcases modern artworks from contemporary artists around the world

Examples of usage

  • Archaeologists discovered ancient artefacts in the tomb.
  • The museum has a collection of artefacts from different civilizations.
  • The artefacts found at the site shed light on the daily lives of ancient people.
Context #2 | Noun

in technology

Pieces of equipment or technology that are used in a particular field or activity.

Synonyms

devices, instruments, tools.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
artefacts

Use when talking about objects made by humans, usually of cultural or historical significance.

  • The museum displayed ancient artefacts from the Roman Empire
  • Archaeologists discovered artefacts from the Bronze Age
devices

Refers to mechanical or electronic equipment created for a specific purpose.

  • He uses multiple devices to stay connected, including a smartphone and a tablet
  • The kitchen is filled with modern cooking devices
tools

Loosely refers to handheld objects used to carry out a particular function or task, especially in building or repair.

  • He reached for his tools to fix the broken chair
  • Carpenters rely heavily on their tools to craft furniture
instruments

Typically used for tools that measure, detect, or produce; often in scientific or musical contexts.

  • The scientist used precise instruments to measure the chemical reaction
  • She plays several musical instruments, including the piano and guitar

Examples of usage

  • The latest digital artefacts revolutionized the way we communicate.
  • Scientists are constantly developing new artefacts for medical research.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Archaeology

  • Artefacts are crucial for archaeologists as they help piece together stories of ancient civilizations.
  • Every artefact found in an excavation site provides clues about the tools, beliefs, and lifestyles of past cultures.

Cultural Significance

  • Artefacts offer insight into the traditions, arts, and daily life of societies, enabling better understanding across generations.
  • Museums display artefacts to educate visitors, highlighting the cultural heritage and history of various peoples.

Innovation and Technology

  • Many artefacts have led to groundbreaking discoveries in technology, revealing early lapses in innovation like simple machines.
  • The study of artefacts can show how technologies evolved over time, shaping modern conveniences.

Literature and Art

  • Various authors have incorporated artefacts into their narratives, using them as symbols of power, loss, or memory.
  • In art, many famous pieces serve as artefacts, bridging historical periods, reflecting societal values and changes.

Origin of 'artefacts'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'artefact' comes from Latin, where 'arte' means 'by skill' and 'factum' means 'made.'
  • In different cultures, artifacts may be referred to by various terms, but they all share the idea of being created by human hands.

The word 'artefacts' comes from the Latin word 'artefactus', which means 'something made with skill'. In archaeology, artefacts are crucial in understanding past human societies and cultures. They provide valuable insights into the way people lived, worked, and interacted. In modern technology, artefacts refer to digital or physical tools that are essential for various industries and scientific advancements.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #16,872, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.