n. (pl. -ies)
1. ancient times, esp. the period before the Middle Ages.
2 great age (a city of great antiquity).
3 (usu. in pl.) physical remains or relics from ancient times, esp. buildings and works of art.
4 (in pl.) customs, events, etc., of ancient times.
5 the people of ancient times regarded collectively.
Etymology: ME f. OF antiquit{eacute} f. L antiquitas -tatis f. antiquus: see ANTIQUE