First Known Use: 13th century
Dictionary
relic
noun rel·ic \ˈre-lik\
: 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
Full Definition of RELIC
1
3
: a survivor or remnant left after decay, disintegration, or disappearance
4
: a trace of some past or outmoded practice, custom, or belief
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Origin 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
RELIC Defined for Kids
relic
noun rel·ic \ˈre-lik\
Definition of RELIC for Kids
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
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