artifact
AR-ti-fakt
ˈɑːrtɪfækt
An object made by a human being, typically one of cultural or historical interest.
Specifically refers to man-made objects, as opposed to 'ecofacts' (like seeds or bones) found at archaeological sites.
The story behind the word. From the Latin 'arte' (by skill) and 'factum' (a thing made). It literally means something made with skill.
Word relationships
- relic: A relic is often a part of a person's body or a very old, surviving fragment; an artifact is any man-made object.
- antique: An antique is usually at least 100 years old and valued for its beauty or rarity; an artifact is valued for its historical information.
Commonly confused with
- fossil: A fossil is the remains of a once-living thing; an artifact is something made by a human.
Word family
- artifactual (adjective): Relating to an artifact.
Collocations
- ancient artifact
- cultural artifact
- archaeological artifact
Example sentences
- "The museum's collection includes many ancient Egyptian artifacts, such as pottery and jewelry." Archaeology
- "In software development, an artifact is a byproduct of the process, like a design document." Technology
Memory hook
An 'art-i-fact' is a 'fact' of history made by 'art' (skill). Man-made history.
When not to use
Don't use 'artifact' for something naturally occurring like a rock or a tree.
Fun facts
- The 'Antikythera mechanism' is an ancient Greek artifact often called the world's first analog computer.
Related words
Explore more words
handicraft, craftsmanship, artisan, archive, memorabilia, curio
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