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Remnants Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐Ÿ”ฅ
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remnants

[หˆrษ›mnษ™nts ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

leftover materials

Remnants are the remaining parts or pieces of something that has been destroyed or used up. They are usually small in size and serve as a reminder of what was once there. Remnants can be found in various forms, such as scraps, fragments, or traces.

Synonyms

leftovers, remains, residue.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
remnants

Used to describe small parts that are left from something larger, often after the rest has been consumed, used, or destroyed. Can apply to both physical and abstract things, like memories.

  • The remnants of the ancient civilization were discovered deep in the jungle.
  • She found remnants of her grandmother's jewelry in an old box.
remains

Often used to describe what is left of something after it has been broken, destroyed, or decayed. Commonly used when referring to human bodies, ruins, or artifacts.

  • Archaeologists found the remains of an ancient temple buried under the sand.
  • The remains of the soldiers were buried with full honors.
residue

Refers to a small amount of something that remains after the main part has been removed, often used in scientific or technical contexts. Can have a negative connotation when referring to something unwanted.

  • Make sure to clean the pan properly to remove any soap residue.
  • After the chemical reaction, there was a white residue left at the bottom of the flask.
leftovers

Commonly refers to food that remains after a meal. It can also be used informally to describe anything that is left unused after an event or activity.

  • We'll have the leftovers from dinner for lunch tomorrow.
  • We need to clear out the leftovers from the conference room after the meeting.

Examples of usage

  • The archaeologists found remnants of an ancient civilization buried in the ground.
  • She kept the remnants of the old vase as a memento of her grandmother.
  • The remnants of the meal were saved for the next day's lunch.
  • The remnants of the fire were still smoldering in the ashes.
  • The remnants of the castle walls stood as a testament to its former glory.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

  • The term comes from the Latin word 'remnantem', which means 'to remain'.
  • It has been in use in English since the late 14th century, originally describing leftover pieces in textiles.
  • Historically, remnants have been significant in various cultures, especially in the context of food and clothing.

Cultural Significance

  • In many cultures, remnants symbolize memories of the past, often used in art and storytelling.
  • Folk practices often involve using remnants in crafts, like patchwork quilting, representing resourcefulness and creativity.
  • Leftover food, considered remnants, forms the basis of many cultural recipes, promoting the idea of not wasting.

Psychology

  • Remnants can trigger nostalgia, evoking feelings linked to memories of times and places.
  • Psychologists suggest that our attachment to remnants can illustrate how we cope with loss and change.
  • The concept of remnants often appears in therapy sessions, where they represent past experiences influencing present behavior.

Literature

  • Many authors use remnants as metaphors for loss and survival, illustrating characters' journeys through abandoned belongings.
  • In poetry, remnants can symbolize fleeting moments, capturing what remains after something significant has occurred.
  • Classic literature often explores themes of remnants, reflecting on how the past shapes identity and experience.

Economics and Sustainability

  • In economics, remnants refer to leftover inventory in production, which can indicate inefficiency in resource use.
  • Sustainable practices increasingly focus on 'remnants', promoting the idea of upcycling waste into useful products.
  • Remnants in the context of consumer behavior suggest that what remains can drive innovation in recycling and product design.

Origin of 'remnants'

The word 'remnants' originates from the Latin word 'remnantem,' which means 'that which remains.' It has been used in the English language since the 15th century. The concept of remnants has been significant in various fields, including archaeology, history, and art, where the remaining parts or traces of past civilizations or creations hold valuable insights into the past.

Word Frequency Rank

Position #9,907 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.