“Historical” and “historic” are obviously related. Both pertain to history or the potential to be remembered in history. However, they rarely overlap in usage.
historical
“Historical” is the most straightforward term. It simply refers to a connection with history.
- of or relating to history or to the past.
I’m particularly interested in historical subjects such as the causes of war.
The Boston Massacre was an historical event that took place in 1770. - representing or based upon history.
Shakespeare wrote historical plays in addition to comedies and tragedies. - based on or relating to the records of history, as opposed to the stories of legend or myth.
The historical Pocahontas differs greatly from film versions.
historic
“Historic” in its most common senses has more to do with importance or significance. A “historical” museum presents things about history. It might be a modern building recently erected that features exhibits relating to Napoleon Bonaparte. A “historic” museum is one that has played a part in history itself or has some significance as an old and important structure. A ”historic” museum could be an art museum and have nothing to do with describing events occurring in history.
- significant in history.
The historic Treaty of Versailles brought a formal end to war between Germany and the Allied Powers. - of very great significance or importance and therefore likely to be remembered in history; momentous.
Today’s opening of the new bridge is a historic event. - established or recorded in the past.
Historic temperatures for this day show an all-time high of 102 °F. - dating from the distant, or relatively distant, past.
This historic ship is on display in the harbor museum.
The residents of the community came together to protect their historic library.
Just interested in words? Looking for clear dictionary definitions and examples? Join our users and subscribers at wordsmyth.net or kids.wordsmyth.net.