relict

¹rel·ict

noun \ˈre-likt\

Definition of RELICT

1

: widow

2

: a surviving species of an otherwise extinct group of organisms; also : a remnant of a formerly widespread species that persists in an isolated area

3

a : a relief feature or rock remaining after other parts have disappeared

b : something left unchanged

Origin of RELICT

in sense 1, from Middle English relicte, from Late Latin relicta, from Latin, feminine of relictus, past participle of relinquere; in senses 2 & 3, from relict residual, adjective, from Latin relictus

First Known Use: 15th century

²relict

adjective

Definition of RELICT

: of, relating to, or being a relict <relict populations>

First Known Use of RELICT

15th century