Historical

Definition

Historical is an adjective that refers to anything related to history, events from the past, or the study and representation of those events. It may also describe something significant within a historical context.

Parts of Speech

• Adjective

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /hɪˈstɔːr.ɪ.kəl/
• Respelling: hi-STOR-i-kuhl

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /hɪˈstɒr.ɪ.kəl/
• Respelling: hi-STOR-i-kuhl

Etymology

The word "historical" originates from the Medieval Latin "historicalis," which is derived from Latin "historia," meaning "narrative, account, or history." The term entered Middle English in the 15th century.

Derivatives

• Historically (adverb)
• Historian (noun)
• Historic (adjective)
• Historiography (noun)
• Historicalness (noun)

Synonyms

• Chronological
• Documented
• Past

Antonyms

• Modern
• Contemporary
• Future

Usage

The term "historical" is used to describe contexts, records, or objects related to history. For example, "The museum displayed historical artifacts," or "This book provides a historical account of the Civil War."

Related Terms

• Antiquity: A term referring to ancient times.
• Chronicle: A detailed historical account of events.
• Archaeology: The study of historical human activity through material remains.

Detailed Definitions

Adjective

• Relating to history: Refers to events, studies, or representations concerning the past.
  • Example: "The historical novel portrays life in the 18th century."
• Significant within history: Describes something that had an impact or importance in the past.
  • Example: "The signing of the treaty was a historical event."
• Relating to the study of history: Refers to the academic examination of past events and their causes.
  • Example: "She specializes in historical research."