RELICT

relict

(noun) geological feature that is a remnant of a pre-existing formation after other parts have disappeared

relict

(noun) an organism or species surviving as a remnant of an otherwise extinct flora or fauna in an environment much changed from that in which it originated

Source: WordNet® 3.1


Etymology

Noun

relict (plural relicts)

(formal) Something that, or someone who, survives or remains or is left over after the loss of others; a relic.

(archaic) The surviving member of a married couple after one or the other has died; a widow or widower.

(biology, ecology) A species, organism, or ecosystem which has survived from a previous age: one which was once widespread but which is now found only in a few areas.

(geology) A structure or other feature which has survived from a previous age.

(linguistics) A survival of an archaic word, language or other form.

Adjective

relict (not comparable)

Surviving, remaining.

That is a relict; pertaining to a relict.

Source: Wiktionary


Rel"ict (-kt), n. Etym: [L. relicta, fr. of relictus, p. p. of relinquere to leave behind. See Relinquish.]

Definition: A woman whose husband is dead; a widow. Eli dying without issue, Jacob was obbliged by law to marry his relict, and so to raise up seed to his brother Eli. South.

Source: Webster’s Unabridged Dictionary 1913 Edition



RESET




Word of the Day

3 May 2025

DESIRABLE

(adjective) worth having or seeking or achieving; “a desirable job”; “computer with many desirable features”; “a desirable outcome”


coffee icon

Coffee Trivia

Decaffeinated coffee is not caffeine-free. Studies from the National Institute of Health (US) have shown that virtually all decaf coffee types contain caffeine. A 236-ml (8-oz) cup of decaf coffee contains up to 7 mg of caffeine, whereas a regular cup provided 70-140 mg.

coffee icon