SINCE 1828

An Encyclopædia Britannica Company

time capsule

noun

Definition of time capsule

1 :a container holding historical records or objects representative of current culture that is deposited (as in a cornerstone) for preservation until discovery by some future age

2 :something resembling a time capsule

sunken vessels are archaeological time capsules
—Philip Trupp

See time capsule defined for English-language learners

See time capsule defined for kids

First Known Use of time capsule

1938

TIME CAPSULE Defined for English Language Learners

time capsule

noun

Definition of time capsule for English Language Learners

: a container that is filled with things (such as newspapers or clothing) from the present time and that is meant to be opened by people at some time in the future

TIME CAPSULE Defined for Kids

time capsule

noun

Definition of time capsule for Students

:a container holding records or objects representative of a current culture that is put in a safe place for discovery in the future

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