Neandertal man
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
- Noun:
- An extinct species or subspecies of archaic human: "Neandertal Man" refers to a robust, now-extinct type of human who lived during the Middle Paleolithic period, primarily in Europe and western Asia. This term is often used synonymously with Homo neanderthalensis.
Usage Examples
- Noun:
- Fossil evidence shows that Neandertal Man coexisted with early modern humans for a period.
- The discovery of tools and burial sites has given us insight into the culture of Neandertal Man.
Advanced Usage
- Scientific and popular discourse: The term is used in both scientific literature and popular media to discuss human evolution, often in contrast to (modern humans).
- Recent DNA studies have revealed that many modern humans carry a small percentage of Neandertal Man ancestry.
Variants and Related Words
- Neanderthal (noun/adjective): The more common modern spelling for the same extinct human. As an adjective, it can describe characteristics associated with this group (e.g., ) or, informally and pejoratively, suggest crude or primitive behavior.
- Homo neanderthalensis (noun): The formal binomial (scientific) name for the species.
Synonyms
- Neanderthal: The alternate spelling and most direct synonym.
- Cave man: A broader, less precise, and often stereotypical term that can include Neandertals and other archaic humans.
Notes on Meaning
- The term specifically denotes a prehistoric human population known from fossil records. It should not be confused with modern humans ().
- The informal, derogatory use of "Neanderthal" to mean a crude or stupid person is considered offensive and is based on an outdated and inaccurate understanding of their capabilities.
Noun
- extinct robust human of Middle Paleolithic in Europe and western Asia