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Vestiges Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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vestiges

[หˆvษ›stษชdส’ษชz ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

in archaeology

Small remaining traces, marks, or signs of something that existed or has now disappeared.

Synonyms

remains, remnants, traces.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
vestiges

Used to refer to small or faint signs of something that once existed but is now largely gone. Often applied in historical, archaeological, or metaphorical contexts.

  • There are vestiges of the ancient civilization scattered throughout the ruins
  • Only vestiges of his old fear remain
remnants

Describes small parts left over after most of something has been removed, used up, or destroyed. Often applied to physical objects, materials, or abstract concepts.

  • The remnants of the meal were scattered on the table
  • The remnants of the once-great empire can still be seen in the city's architecture
traces

Indicates very small amounts or signs of something present. Frequently used in contexts related to forensics, chemistry, or anything requiring careful observation to spot small details.

  • Traces of blood were found at the crime scene
  • Scientists found traces of rare minerals in the rock sample
remains

Refers to parts left over after the rest has been used, removed, or destroyed. Commonly used in contexts involving physical remnants such as ruins, artifacts, or biological leftovers.

  • The remains of the ancient temple were discovered buried under layers of sand
  • The police found the remains of a burnt-out car

Examples of usage

  • The ancient ruins are the only vestiges of the lost city.
  • She carefully examined the vestiges of the pottery to determine its age.
Context #2 | Noun

in biology

A degenerate or imperfectly developed structure or organ that has little or no function.

Synonyms

relic, remnant, trace.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
vestiges

This entry is a duplicate of the first 'vestiges' and should not be used again.
relic

Refers to an object, tradition, or practice that has survived from an earlier time, often considered holy or with sentimental value. Used in both historical and religious contexts.

  • The museum has relics from the medieval period.
  • A relic of her grandmother's time, the brooch was very precious to her.
trace

Refers to an extremely small amount or a sign that shows something has been present or existed, often used in scientific or investigative contexts.

  • Scientists found traces of ancient bacteria in the ice.
  • There was no trace of the missing documents.
remnant

Used when talking about a small remaining quantity of something, commonly in contexts related to fabric, food, and ruins. Can sometimes have a nostalgic or emotional connotation.

  • We found remnants of the meal in the kitchen.
  • The remnants of the castle stood proudly on the hill.

Examples of usage

  • The appendix is considered a vestigial organ in humans.
  • The wings of flightless birds are vestiges of their ancestors' ability to fly.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Science

  • Paleontologists often study vestiges in the form of fossils, which provide clues about ancient life.
  • Genetics shows vestiges through traits that organisms have inherited but no longer use, like the human appendix.

Cultural References

  • In literature, vestiges can symbolize remnants of the past, often representing lost knowledge or history.
  • Many ghost stories revolve around the vestiges of past lives, with clues left behind that characters seek to uncover.

Psychology

  • The concept of vestiges can apply to memories, where certain feelings or thoughts linger from past experiences.
  • Used as a metaphor, vestiges of childhood can influence adult behaviors and preferences.

Art

  • Artists often incorporate vestiges into their work, using elements from previous styles or eras to create a dialogue with the past.
  • In archaeology, vestigial artworks can provide insight into the cultural practices of ancient societies.

Origin of 'vestiges'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'vestigium', meaning 'footprint' or 'trace'.
  • In its original form, it was used in ancient Rome to refer to signs of a path someone had taken.

The word 'vestiges' comes from the Latin word 'vestigium', meaning 'footprint' or 'trace'. It was first used in English in the early 17th century. The concept of vestiges has been significant in various fields such as archaeology, biology, and history, highlighting the remnants or traces of the past that provide insight into evolution and development.

See also: vestige, vestigial.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #17,680, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.