remnant

IPA

Dictionary definition of remnant

A small remaining part or fragment of something that was once whole or larger.
"The archaeologist found a remnant of ancient pottery in the ruins."

Detailed meaning of remnant

It often implies that the larger or original entity has been reduced, worn down, or depleted over time, leaving behind only a trace or leftover portion. Remnants can take various forms, such as leftover fabric after cutting out a pattern for sewing, the remaining ruins of an ancient civilization, or the last surviving members of a particular group or species. Remnants can hold historical, cultural, or sentimental significance, as they are often reminders of what once was or symbols of resilience in the face of change or decay. In essence, a remnant is a piece that endures after the passage of time or the occurrence of events, representing a connection to the past or the persistence of something in a modified form.

Example sentences containing remnant

1. The old castle's ruins were a remnant of a bygone era.
2. She found a remnant of fabric in the sewing kit.
3. The remnant of the cake disappeared quickly at the party.
4. A tiny remnant of sunlight peeked through the clouds.
5. He collected a remnant of antique coins from his travels.
6. The forest's last remnant of snow melted in the spring.

History and etymology of remnant

The noun 'remnant' has its roots in Old French and Latin. It originated from the Old French word 'remenant,' which meant 'what is left behind' or 'remained,' derived from the Latin word 'remanere,' where 're' means 'again' and 'manere' means 'to remain.' This etymology underscores the concept of a small part or fragment that remains after something larger or whole has been diminished, used, or eroded over time. 'Remnant' commonly refers to the surviving portion of something, such as a scrap of fabric, a piece of land, or a group of people, highlighting its enduring nature despite the passage of time or the occurrence of change or depletion.

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Further usage examples of remnant

1. The remnant of the bookshelf held a few forgotten books.
2. The village was a remnant of a once-thriving community.
3. She discovered a remnant of history in the dusty attic.
4. The remnant of the shipwreck was now a popular dive site.
5. A remnant of the ancient wall still stood in the city.
6. The remnant of the storm left puddles in its wake.
7. He salvaged a remnant of the damaged painting.
8. The remnant of the dessert was a single chocolate truffle.
9. The remnant of the vintage dress was carefully preserved.
10. A remnant of the antique rug adorned the living room.
11. She found a remnant of childhood joy in the old toy chest.
12. The remnant of the newspaper headline caught his eye.
13. The remnant of the mosaic floor hinted at its grandeur.
14. The remnant of the glacier had retreated over the years.
15. He treasured the remnant of his grandmother's necklace.
16. The remnant of the ancient temple still held a sacred aura.
17. A remnant of hope remained in the midst of despair.
18. The remnant of the forgotten village had its own charm.
19. She uncovered a remnant of an extinct species in the museum.