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Historic: meaning and examples

historic means important in history. Watch the story, then try free practice below.

Read the story

I'm old, so I'm historic!

Old? Yes. Historic? Let's check.

See? Twelve years old!

That's age, not history.

Age. Of course!

Historic means important in history.

This school project changed how the school used energy. That impact makes it historic.

How about now?

Still old. Historic is about importance, not age.

Words change everything.

Explore the word · adjective

What does historic mean?

important in history.

How the story shows the meaning

The story contrasts being twelve years old with a school project that changed energy use. Its importance to the school’s history could make the project historic; age alone is not the reason.

historic in a sentence

  • The opening of the community’s first school was a historic moment for local families.
  • A decision made today could become historic if it leads to a lasting change in a country’s laws.
  • The team celebrated a historic win: its first national championship.

Explain what made something important and to whom. “Historical” usually describes a connection with the past or the study of history. The linked comparison page explores the difference in more detail.

Check your understanding

Which detail best supports calling an event historic?

Read the answer and explanation

It permanently changed who could attend the community’s schools. Correct. A lasting change in access to education can explain the event’s importance.

Try two more questions

Explain your thinking, then open a sample answer. These are extra practice examples to use after watching.

1. Does a bicycle become historic just because it is old?

Show sample answer

No. Its age alone is not enough. Evidence that it played an important part in an event or development could support calling it historic.

2. Why might a community describe the opening of its first public library as historic?

Show sample answer

It could mark an important change in access to books and learning. Explain that impact instead of relying only on the opening date.

Companion lesson by Parrivo · Updated