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Definition of "relic" []

  • Something that has survived the passage of time, especially an object or custom whose original culture has disappeared: "Corporal punishment was a relic of barbarism” ( Cyril Connolly). (noun)
  • Something cherished for its age or historic interest. (noun)
  • An object kept for its association with the past; a memento. (noun)
  • An object of religious veneration, especially a piece of the body or a personal item of a saint. (noun)
  • A corpse; remains. (noun)

American Heritage(R) Dictionary of the English Language, Fifth Edition. Copyright (c) 2011 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.

Use "relic" in a sentence
  • "Also similar are the supernatural elements to both games as the mystery of the title relic inevitably leads to the discovery of some unnatural force that threatens the world."
  • "ZAHN: Obviously not going to take any questions today, but confirming what he told congressional members yesterday, that the United States will unilaterally withdraw from the ABM Treaty, what he calls a relic of the Cold War."
  • "Uncle. twas my intention to have brought it home again with me. you see Grosvenor this relic is already become rare. have you received the original"