The term “ancient” is often used to describe things that are old, historical, or from a bygone era. In this article, we will explore the definition and meaning of the word “ancient,” its origins, and its associations.
Definitions
The word “ancient” is an adjective that describes something that is very old or from a long time ago. It can also refer to something that is classic or traditional in style, or something that is no longer in use or popular.
Origin
The word “ancient” comes from the Latin word “antiquus,” which means “old” or “ancient.” It has been used in English since the 14th century.
Meaning in different dictionaries
According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, “ancient” means “having existed for a very long time” or “belonging to a remote period or to a time long past.” The Oxford English Dictionary defines it as “belonging to the very distant past and no longer in existence” or “having the qualities or characteristics of something from the past.”
Associations
The word “ancient” is often associated with history, culture, and tradition. It can be used to describe artifacts, buildings, or other objects that are from a bygone era. It is also commonly used to describe myths, legends, and stories from ancient times.
Synonyms
Some synonyms for “ancient” include old, historic, antique, archaic, and traditional.
Antonyms
Antonyms for “ancient” include modern, contemporary, new, and current.
The same root words
The word “ancient” shares the same root words as other words such as “antique,” “antiquity,” and “antiquarian.”
Example Sentences
- The ancient ruins of Machu Picchu are a must-see for any history buff.
- She inherited an ancient family heirloom that had been passed down for generations.
- The ancient Greeks believed in a pantheon of gods and goddesses.
- The traditional dance had an ancient feel to it, with its flowing robes and intricate footwork.
- The museum had a collection of ancient artifacts from Egypt, including mummies and hieroglyphics.