Artifact: meaning, definitions and examples

Commonly used to describe an object made by a human being, typically one of cultural or historical interest. Usually found in museums or during archaeological digs.

• The museum was full of ancient artifacts
• Archaeologists discovered a rare artifact from the Bronze Age

Usually signifies an object or a piece of something that remains from the past, often with sacred or sentimental significance. Often used in religious or historical contexts.

• The cathedral houses many holy relics
• This book is a relic of the medieval era

Refers generally to the ancient past, especially the period of classical and other ancient civilizations. It can also refer to an object from ancient times, but more often it describes the time period itself.

• The study of antiquity reveals much about human history
• He has a keen interest in Roman antiquities

Refers to a small remaining part or quantity of something, often a surviving trace of a larger whole. Used in both historical contexts and in everyday situations.

• A remnant of the ancient wall still stands in the city
• She found a remnant of cloth that matched her old dress

Often used to describe an object made by a human being, typically one of cultural or historical interest.

• The museum has an extensive collection of ancient Egyptian artifacts

This word is commonly used to describe an object made by humans that has historical, cultural, or archaeological significance.

• The museum displayed ancient artifacts from Egypt.
• The archaeologists discovered a rare artifact buried in the ruins.