# remnant

/ˈɹɛmnənt/ (US) · /ɹˈɛmnənt/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/remnant
Updated: 2026-05-06

## Definition

a small part of something that remains after the rest has gone or been destroyed.

For teachers: a small remaining quantity of something; a trace or vestige of a larger whole that has largely disappeared.

## Examples

- The archaeologists found a remnant of an ancient wall.
- After the revolution, only a small remnant of the old ruling class remained in the country.
- The scattered ruins are the last visible remnant of a civilization that once dominated the entire valley before falling into sudden and mysterious decline.

## Usage notes

- Often used in the plural form to describe physical remains or surviving groups of people.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.