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ancient

an·cient

ancient

 
 
pronunciation:
eIn chnt
parts of speech:
adjective, noun
features:
Word Combinations (adjective, noun), Word Explorer
part of speech: adjective
definition 1: extremely old; existing for many years.
We saw the ancient ruins of the old city.
 
synonyms:
age-old, antique, old
antonyms:
brand-new, new
similar words:
aged, immemorial, old-time, superannuated
definition 2: of or referring to times in the distant past.
The class is studying the rulers of ancient Egypt.
synonyms:
archaic, early
antonyms:
contemporary, modern
similar words:
antique, bygone, classical, immemorial, prehistoric
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part of speech: noun
definition 1: (often pl.) one who lived in ancient times, esp. a writer of the classic civilizations.
The writings of the ancients are still of interest.
similar words:
patriarch
definition 2: a very old person.
We ancients would prefer to stay home in this weather.
synonyms:
antediluvian
similar words:
elder, Methuselah, old-timer, oldster, patriarch
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derivation: ancientness (n.)
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  culture, history, tradition