relic
UK: ˈrelɪk | US: ˈrelɪk
n. an object surviving from an earlier time, especially one of historical or sentimental interest
n. a surviving trace of something (e.g., a custom or belief)
n. (in religion) a part of a holy person's body or belongings kept as an object of reverence
The word "relic" originates from Latin reliquiae (remains), derived from re- (back) + linquere (to leave). It originally referred to physical remains left behind, especially those of saints or historical figures. Over time, it broadened to include any surviving object or trace from the past, reflecting its journey through Old French (relique) into Middle English. The core idea of "something left behind" persists in its modern meanings.
The museum displayed a relic from the Roman Empire.
This ancient sword is a relic of a forgotten battle.
The tradition is a relic of medieval customs.
Pilgrims traveled to see the relic of a saint.
The old factory stands as a relic of the industrial age.