Meaning & Definition of word "Relic"

Relic

/ˈrɛlɪk/

noun:

  • 1. An object surviving from an earlier time, especially one of historical or sentimental interest.
    • Example: The museum showcased a relic from the ancient Roman Empire.
  • 2. A part of a deceased holy person, regarded as worthy of veneration.
    • Example: The church displayed the relic of a saint, drawing many pilgrims.
  • 3. Something that has survived from the past.
    • Example: The old-fashioned typewriter is a relic of a bygone era.
  • 4. An outdated custom or belief.
    • Example: The practice of writing letters by hand is becoming a relic in the digital age.

Etymology

From Latin 'reliquiae' meaning 'remains' or 'leftovers'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

relic of the past:

An object or idea that is outdated but still exists.

living relic:

A person or thing that is a reminder of a past era or event.

Related Words

artifact:

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

antiquity:

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

Slang Meanings of relic

Meaning: An old-fashioned item or person.

Example Sentence: That old car is such a relic from the 70s!

Meaning: Something that has lost its relevance but is still around.

Example Sentence: His arguments are just relics from another century.