Historical is used as the general term for describing history, such as 'the historical record,' while historic is now usually reserved for important and famous moments in history, such as 'a historic battle.'

Here you will find the oldest prison west of the Mississippi River, the world’s largest double deck swing span bridge, Iowa’s oldest Mexican community, home of the Sheaffer Pen and so much more! Watch …

Oct 23, 2025 · Adjective historic (comparative more historic, superlative most historic) Very important; noteworthy: having importance or significance in history.

Historic means ‘important or likely to be important in history’: … Authorities and meteorologists described the flooding as historic and the worst seen in the region apart from that spawned by …

Fort Madison honors the work of the Fort Madison Historic Preservation Commission and encourages residents to explore, appreciate, and support the historic sites that define our city’s character.

Historic refers to that which is associated with significant events in history: the historic first voyage to the moon. Thus, a historic house is likely to be of interest not just because it is relatively old, but because …

Something that is historic is important in history, or likely to be considered important at some time in the future. King gave this historic speech the night before he was assassinated. ...a fourth historic …

When you describe something that's historic, it's either the first or the only of its kind. Historic moments are so important or momentous that they'll show up in history textbooks.

Our museums are housed in a collection of historic buildings within the Santa Fe Depot Complex, Brush College and the old Lee County Jail, showcasing Fort Madison’s cultural, civic, and industrial history.

WordReference Random House Unabridged Dictionary of American English © 2026 his•tor•ic (hi stôr′ ik, -stor′ -), adj. World History well-known or important in history: a historic building; historic occasions. …