time capsule

noun

1
: a container holding historical records or objects representative of current culture that is deposited (as in a cornerstone) for preservation until discovery by some future age
2
: something resembling a time capsule
Sunken vessels are archaeological time capsules.—Philip Trupp

Examples of time capsule in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Overland Park Shoe Repair — a time capsule in the middle of a modern, burgeoning downtown — will close its doors at the end of the year. — Kansas City Star, 24 Oct. 2026 Captured on 16mm film, the doc is a time capsule offering a seat at the table with the visionaries who helped shape a movement. — Jill Goldsmith, Deadline, 22 Oct. 2026 Think of them as time capsules from the solar system's childhood. — Joe Rao, Space.com, 16 Oct. 2026 Now completed by his son, David Greaves, this documentary offers an intimate time capsule of a generation’s wit, debates and unmistakable style — inviting audiences to spend an evening in the company of history. — Katherine Brodsky, Variety, 16 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for time capsule

Word History

First Known Use

1938, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of time capsule was in 1938

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Time capsule.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/time%20capsule. Accessed 27 Oct. 2026.

Kids Definition

time capsule

noun
: a container holding historical records or objects representative of current culture that is placed (as in a cornerstone) for preservation until discovery by some future age
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