relic

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noun rel·ic \ˈre-lik\

Simple Definition of relic

: something that is from a past time, place, culture, etc.
: an object (such as a piece of clothing or the bone of a saint) that is considered holy

Source: Merriam-Webster's Learner's Dictionary

Full Definition of relic

1 a : an object esteemed and venerated because of association with a saint or martyr b : souvenir, memento
2 plural : remains, corpse
3 : a survivor or remnant left after decay, disintegration, or disappearance
4 : a trace of some past or outmoded practice, custom, or belief

See relic defined for English-language learners

See relic defined for kids

Examples of relic in a sentence

<a crude stone ax and other relics of the Neanderthals>
<in my grandparents' attic are many “groovy” relics from the 1960s>

Origin and Etymology of relic

Middle English relik, from Anglo-French relike, from Medieval Latin reliquia, from Late Latin reliquiae, plural, remains of a martyr, from Latin, remains, from relinquere to leave behind — more at relinquish

First Known Use: 13th century

RELIC Defined for Kids

relic

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noun rel·ic \ˈre-lik\

Definition of relic for Students

1 : something left behind after decay or disappearance <They uncovered relics of an ancient city.>
2 : an object that is considered holy because of its connection with a saint or martyr