Glossary
This is a glossary of terms and their definitions that show up most commonly in my research to help you with quick and easy reading. This may be especially as many of these words and phrases have changed and morphed over the years with historians and archaeologists often debating and refining their meaning.
Definitions will also come with some links for further reading and footnotes citing the source.
This is a list that will continue to update over time, so make sure you come back later too to see what has been added! If you are looking for a particular word that isn’t on this list, you can directly message me using the link below.
Apotropaic | In reference to apotropaic devices
Possessing the power or ability to ward away supernatural forces, witchcraft, or evil influences; essentially offering protection.
Concealment Practices | See also ritual concealment
The practice of concealing objects as a form of ritual, folkloric practice, or religious practice.
Conservation | In reference to textile conservation and conservators
The preservation, restoration, repair, and protection of historical objects. Textile conservation is a specialised field of conservation that deals with conserving textiles and dress.
Cultural History
A study of cultural practices and methods of living by different social groups. Usually focusing on the cornerstones of culture, such as art, food, architecture, and acts of tradition or ritual. Overlaps with social history in its pursuit to understand the historical traditions and experiences of past people, as well as considering their attitudes and beliefs. The study of magic, ritual, and supernatural beliefs is often studied as an element of cultural history.
Garment
Discernible as an item of clothing rather than as scraps of fabric. This distinction will be made quite frequently.
Historiography | Other words include historiographer
Literally referring to the writing of history, including everything that historians and other scholars have written about historical sources. It is important for historians to consider the historiography of their chosen subjects, sources, and periods of study.
Immaterial
Opposite of material; spiritual, intangible, or conceptual elements of an object rather than the physical.
Intangible
Opposite of tangible. Concepts outside of a physical, tangible object. Often refers to intangible culture such as oral traditions and social practices. Not perceivable by touch.
Material | In reference to material culture
Referring to the physical attributes of an object. Also denoting to the materials, fabrics, or textiles used to construct a garment or element of dress.
Scholar
Academics; often used as an umbrella term for academics from different disciplines and fields of studies, such as historians, archaeologists, and conservators, to name a few.
Social History
A study of the social and cultural practices of society, often seen as the study of the lived experience of history and of the people, including social structures and the interaction of social groups. Historical events posed from social perspectives.
Tangible
Something that is material, physical, or perceivable by touch. In reference to a physical object of some kind.