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ancient

adjective

/ˈeɪn ʃənt/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of ancient

Referring to a period in history that is far in the past and distant from the present time.
"The archaeologists discovered ancient artifacts buried deep beneath the desert sands."

Detailed meaning of ancient

It describes an era that predates the modern or contemporary era, often characterized by significant cultural, historical, or technological differences. Ancient civilizations, such as the Egyptians, Greeks, or Romans, existed thousands of years ago and left behind enduring legacies. Secondly, 'ancient' can denote something that is old, having existed for a long time. It describes objects, artifacts, or structures that have endured the passage of time and carry historical or cultural significance. Ancient ruins, ancient manuscripts, or ancient artifacts are often valued for their historical insights or artistic merits. Lastly, 'ancient' can metaphorically imply a sense of wisdom, tradition, or timelessness. It conveys a sense of deep-rootedness and enduring relevance, as in ancient wisdom or ancient traditions. Overall, 'ancient' encompasses the notions of historical era, age, longevity, and enduring value.

Example sentences containing ancient

1. The ancient ruins stand as a testament to a bygone era.
2. Ancient civilizations left behind remarkable legacies.
3. The scroll contains the wisdom of ancient philosophers.
4. Exploring ancient history can be a fascinating journey.
5. Ancient texts provide insights into ancient cultures.
6. The city's ancient architecture is a marvel to behold.

History and etymology of ancient

The adjective 'ancient' has its etymological origins in the Latin word 'antiquus,' which signifies 'old' or 'ancient.' 'Antiquus' itself is derived from 'ante,' meaning 'before' or 'in front of.' Therefore, 'ancient' directly conveys the idea of something belonging to a time period that is far in the past and distant from the present. Its etymology underscores the historical sense of antiquity and the recognition of events, objects, or civilizations that existed long before the contemporary era. The term 'ancient' is a testament to the enduring fascination humans have with their distant past, as it allows them to connect with and study the rich history that precedes them.

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Further usage examples of ancient

1. Ancient artifacts offer glimpses into the past.
2. Ancient traditions continue to be practiced today.
3. The ancient temple is a place of spiritual significance.
4. The ancient manuscripts were carefully preserved.
5. Ancient myths often have moral lessons.
6. Ancient languages can be challenging to decipher.
7. The ancient kingdom once ruled vast territories.
8. Ancient fossils reveal Earth's ancient inhabitants.
9. Ancient legends are woven into the fabric of our culture.
10. Ancient mysteries continue to captivate researchers.
11. The ancient city's layout is a maze of narrow streets.
12. Ancient customs are passed down through generations.
13. The ancient scroll contains a treasure trove of knowledge.
14. Ancient civilizations flourished in diverse regions.
15. The ancient city walls stood as a testament to the civilization that once thrived there.
16. The philosopher studied the ancient texts in search of timeless wisdom.
17. The historian specialized in ancient civilizations, dedicating years of research to understanding their mysteries.
18. The ancient temple drew visitors from around the world, fascinated by its intricate architecture.
19. The ancient manuscript revealed insights into the customs and beliefs of a long-lost society.
20. The ancient ruins provided a glimpse into the daily lives of those who lived centuries ago.
21. The storyteller regaled the audience with tales of ancient heroes and mythical creatures.
22. The museum curator carefully preserved the delicate ancient artifacts for future generations to appreciate.
23. The ancient forest was home to rare species that had existed for thousands of years.
24. The scholar delved into the ancient languages, deciphering the texts written in long-forgotten scripts.
25. The astronomer studied ancient celestial maps, seeking to understand the astronomical knowledge of ancient civilizations.