antiquarians
|an-ti-qua-ri-ans|
🇺🇸
/ˌæn.tɪˈkwer.i.ənz/
🇬🇧
/ˌæn.tɪˈkweə.ri.ənz/
(antiquarian)
study of antiques
Etymology
'antiquarian' originates from Latin, specifically the Late Latin word 'antiquarius', where 'antiquus' meant 'old'.
'antiquarian' changed from Middle French 'antiquaire' (or Medieval Latin 'antiquarius') and eventually became the modern English word 'antiquarian'.
Initially it meant 'relating to ancient things' (adjective sense from Latin), but over time it evolved into the noun sense meaning 'a person who studies or collects antiques' and also 'a dealer/expert in antiquities'.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
plural of 'antiquarian': people who study, collect, or have a strong interest in antiques and ancient artifacts.
The antiquarians examined the Roman pottery fragments and recorded their findings.
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Noun 2
plural of 'antiquarian': experts or dealers who specialize in the study, authentication, and trade of ancient objects and historical relics.
Local antiquarians often advise museums on whether items are genuine or reproductions.
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Last updated: 2025/09/08 06:20