annals

UK: ˈæn.əlz | US: ˈæn.əlz

Definition

  1. n. a record of events year by year; historical chronicles

  2. n. (figuratively) any continuous or methodical record of activities

Structure
ann <year>al <relating to>s <plural suffix>
Etymology

Derived from Latin annālis ("yearly"), from annus ("year"). The morpheme ann- preserves the original Latin root for "year," while -al denotes relation (as in "annual"). The plural suffix -s reflects its common usage as a collective record. The word evolved from literal yearly records to broader historical accounts, retaining its core association with time-bound documentation.

Examples

  1. The annals of ancient Rome provide insights into its political struggles.

  2. Her discoveries earned her a place in the annals of scientific history.

  3. The library holds the annals of the town dating back to the 1600s.

  4. Such bravery is rarely seen in the annals of modern warfare.

  5. The event was recorded in the annals of the royal family.