WordGarden.iohistoric
B1Pronunciation
UK
- /hɪstˈɒrɪk/
US
- /hɪˈstɔrɪk/
Meanings
Adjective
important or likely to be remembered in history
from or connected with an earlier period, especially one worth preserving
Beyond the definition
Something historic isn't just old – it's important because of its connection to the past. Think of a crumbling castle; it's historic because it witnessed battles and royal intrigue. A simple handshake can become historic if it seals a peace treaty. It implies something has lasting significance, shaping events that followed. You might visit a historic district in a city, filled with buildings that tell stories of bygone eras. Not every old thing is historic – your grandmother's chipped teacup isn't (unless she was a queen!), but the Declaration of Independence certainly is.
The word historic describes something connected to or important in history. It goes beyond simply being old; it implies that an event, place, person, or object has had a significant impact on the past and continues to hold importance today. For example, "The signing of the Magna Carta was a historic moment," meaning it fundamentally changed the course of legal and political development.
Historic is often used to describe places – historic landmarks, buildings, or districts – that offer insights into previous eras. You might visit Gettysburg, a historic battlefield where a pivotal Civil War battle took place. It can also refer to events: "This was a historic election," suggesting the outcome will have lasting consequences.
It's important not to confuse historic with historical. While both relate to the past, historical simply means "relating to history" – it's descriptive. Historic, on the other hand, implies importance and significance. A historian studies historical documents; they might uncover evidence of a historic event in them.
So, when you encounter something labeled as historic, remember it's not just about age—it's about impact, legacy, and its place in the grand narrative of time. It's a piece of the past that continues to resonate in the present.
Examples
- 1
Heritage building
They plan to turn the historic station into a museum.
- 2
City center
We stayed in the city's historic center during our trip.
- 3
Diplomacy
The two countries signed a historic peace agreement.
- 4
Sports milestone
It was a historic moment for the club when they won the final.
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Company milestone
Her appointment as CEO was a historic first for the company.
- Phrasehistoric first
the first time something important has happened
- 6
Financial record
The currency fell to a historic low last week.
- Phrasea historic low
the lowest level in history
See also
Similar
Shades of meaning
Contrast
Do not confuse
Used with (collocations)
- historic event
- historic moment
- historic decision
- historic first
Word family
Explore
- turning point
- legacy
Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- historicadjective