What does historic mean?
Historic is an adjective meaning important in history or significant enough to have lasting historical importance. It is commonly used of events, decisions, achievements, buildings, and sites that are judged to have altered a community’s course or preserve a significant past. Unlike the general word “old,” historic implies consequence, legacy, or lasting recognition. The term is broad in range: a recent agreement may be called historic because of its national importance, while an old house is historic only if it is connected with important events or has exceptional architectural or cultural significance. Historians and editors also use historic for something that forms a record of the past. In ordinary writing, historical is generally more appropriate for relationships to history as a subject, as in “historical evidence,” while historic more strongly emphasizes importance. The word is therefore both a description and an evaluation, carrying an emphasis on significance that makes it valuable in discussion of culture, politics, and the built environment.
adjectiveHistorically important or significant, especially because of its influence, importance, or lasting significance. It can also mean relating to history or constituting a record of past events.
- Historically important or consequential, especially because of its lasting significance.
- Of or relating to history or the study of the past.
- Constituting or serving as a record of past events.
"The agreement was a historic moment in the nation’s diplomatic history."
"The restoration of the historic market square has become a priority for the council."
"Historians described the newly discovered manuscript as an exceptional historic record."
"The treaty was widely regarded as a historic achievement."
Old tells you something’s age; historic tells you its place in history.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does historic come from?
The adjective entered English in the early 17th century from Latin historicus, meaning “pertaining to history.” Latin historicus developed from Greek historikos, which was based on historia, meaning “inquiry, narrative, or account,” the source of English history, historian, and historical. Its early English use referred broadly to matters connected with history; over time, its modern emphasis on events or objects of lasting importance became dominant.
Related word forms
How historic is actually used
Generally formal and often carries connotations of public importance, prestige, or lasting consequence. It is especially common in journalism, political commentary, and heritage contexts.
Easily confused with historic
Historic usually emphasizes that something is important in history, whereas historical more commonly means connected with history or the study of the past.