antiquarian
n. countablen. a person who collects and studies old books, coins, or other objects. They are usually very interested in history and the past.
n. a person who collects and studies objects from the past, particularly books, manuscripts, and coins. Often implies a scholarly or obsessive interest in historical relics.
The antiquarian spent years searching for rare medieval coins.
The local library was founded by a wealthy antiquarian who donated his entire collection of 18th-century maps.
While some collectors focus on modern art, the antiquarian remains devoted to the tactile experience of handling centuries-old parchment and deciphering faded ink.
From antiquary + -an.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
Last updated May 25, 2026