Artifact

/ˈɑːrtɪfækt/

Meaning & Definition

noun

An object made by a human being, typically an item of cultural or historical interest.

The museum's exhibit featured an ancient artifact that was discovered in a buried temple.

A feature or item that is a product of human workmanship, which might be of interest in understanding a culture or profession.

Archaeologists uncovered various tools and pottery artifacts during their excavation.

A mistake or unintended effect in a digital or visual medium, often resulting from errors in technology or processing.

The video displayed an artifact, causing a distorted image during playback.

In computing, an object created during the development of software projects, such as a document, diagram, or prototype.

The team presented a software artifact that included the architectural design of the application.

From Latin 'arte factum', meaning 'made by art'

cultural artifact

An object from a particular culture that has historical significance.

historical artifact

An item made by humans that holds historical importance.

artifacts of the past

Objects that provide insight into previous civilizations or cultures.

relic

An object surviving from an earlier time, often of historical interest.

antiquity

The ancient past, especially the period before the Middle Ages.

artifice

Clever or cunning devices or expedients, especially as used to trick or deceive others.

An outdated or obsolete object no longer useful.

That old smartphone is just an artifact of past technology.

In gaming, refers to a high-value item or relic.

That weapon is considered an artifact in the game; it’s very rare and powerful.