antiques
|an-tique|
/ænˈtiːk/
(antique)
old and valuable
Etymology
'antique' originates from Latin and Old French: specifically from Latin 'antiquus' meaning 'old', passed into Old French as 'antique'.
'antiquus' changed into Old French 'antique' and was adopted into Middle English as 'antique', eventually becoming the modern English word 'antique' (and plural 'antiques').
Initially, it meant 'of long ago' or simply 'old'; over time it evolved to often imply 'old and valuable' or 'collectible because of age' in modern usage.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
plural form of 'antique': objects (such as furniture, art, or decorative items) that are old and valued for their age, rarity, craftsmanship, or historical interest.
She sells antiques from the 19th century in her shop.
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Noun 2
items offered for sale as antiques; goods bought and sold by dealers or at auctions (collective sense).
The market was full of antiques and vintage items.
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Verb 1
third person singular present form of 'antique': to treat or present something as an antique (for example, to make something appear old or to sell it as an antique).
He antiques old tables to increase their value for collectors.
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Last updated: 2025/09/08 10:19
