Antique
/ænˈtiːk/
Definitions
2 meaningsAn object of art, furniture, or other object made or used in the past.
/ænˈtiːk/
An old and valuable object.
He inherited a collection of valuable antiques.
💡 Simply: An old, collectible item.
More Examples
The antique shop was filled with treasures.
How It's Used
"The auction house specialized in selling rare antiques."
"She filled her home with beautiful antiques."
Belonging to or characteristic of a much earlier time.
/ænˈtiːk/
Very old; belonging to the past.
She admired the antique furniture in the museum.
💡 Simply: Very old.
More Examples
He collected antique cars.
How It's Used
"The historian studied antique maps of the region."
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
From Middle French antique, from Latin antiquus "ancient, old," from ante "before." The word's meaning evolved from simply meaning 'ancient' to specifically referring to old and valuable objects.
Initially, 'antique' simply meant 'ancient'. Its current connotation of valuable objects developed later.
Memory tip
Think 'ancient' things, often quite valuable.
Word Origin
"ancient"