Definition

Noun: A type of primate belonging to the families Pongidae (great apes) and Hylobatidae (lesser apes). These apes are characterized by their lack of a tail, more complex social behavior and intelligence compared to monkeys, and a body structure that is more similar to that of humans.

Usage

The term "anthropoid ape" is used to refer specifically to tailless apes within a scientific or zoological context. It distinguishes these primates from monkeys (which typically have tails) and from other primate groups. - The gorilla is a powerful anthropoid ape native to the forests of central Africa. - Studying the behavior of anthropoid apes, like chimpanzees, provides insights into human evolution.

Advanced Usage

• The term can be used in anthropological and evolutionary discussions to highlight the close biological relationship between these apes and humans.
  • Fossil evidence suggests a common ancestor for humans and other anthropoid apes.

Variants and Related Words

• Great Ape: Refers specifically to the larger anthropoid apes of the family Pongidae, including gorillas, chimpanzees, bonobos, and orangutans.
• Lesser Ape: Refers specifically to the gibbons and siamangs of the family Hylobatidae.
• Hominoid: A broader superfamily (Hominoidea) that includes both anthropoid apes and humans.

Synonyms

• Ape (in a strict biological sense, excluding monkeys)
• Tailless primate

Related Phrases/Compounds

• Anthropoid ape skeleton: Refers to the bone structure of these apes.
  • The museum displayed an anthropoid ape skeleton next to a human one for comparison.

Noun

1. any tailless ape of the families Pongidae and Hylobatidae