Definition

1. Noun:
   • A genus of primates: "Presbytes" is the former scientific genus name for a group of Old World monkeys commonly known as langurs. These are slender, long-tailed monkeys found in Asia.
   • Langurs: The term is used to refer to the monkeys themselves, characterized by their leaf-based diet and complex social structures.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The Presbytes monkeys were observed feeding in the canopy. (The langur monkeys were observed feeding in the tree canopy.)
  • Scientists have reclassified species once belonging to the genus Presbytes. (Scientists have changed the classification for species that were once in the genus Presbytes.)

Advanced Usage

• In taxonomic context: The name "Presbytes" is primarily used in historical or specialized scientific literature discussing primate taxonomy.
  • The fossil record provides insights into the evolution of Presbytes.
• As a common name referent: In some older texts, "presbytes" may be used informally to mean langurs.
  • The troop of presbytes moved noisily through the forest.

Variants and Related Words

• Langur (n): The common name for these monkeys.
• Semnopithecus (n): The current primary genus name for many langur species formerly classified under .

Synonyms

• Langur
• Leaf monkey (a general common name for many langur species)

Notes on Meaning

• Scientific vs. Common Usage: "Presbytes" is a technical, taxonomic term. In modern biology, the genus name is now more widely used for many of these species, making "Presbytes" an archaic or historical term in scientific classification. However, it remains a precise referent in historical contexts.

Noun

1. langurs