Definition

Noun 1. The species of modern human beings: Homo sapiens is the scientific name for the only extant (currently living) human species. It is characterized by a highly developed brain, complex language, and the capacity for abstract reasoning, culture, and technology.

Usage

• is a taxonomic name, always written in italics in scientific contexts. The genus name () is capitalized, while the species name () is not.
• It is used to distinguish modern humans from other extinct species of the genus , such as (Neanderthals).
• It emphasizes the biological and evolutionary classification of humans.

Examples

• Noun:
  • All people alive today belong to the species Homo sapiens.
  • The fossil record shows that Homo sapiens first appeared in Africa.
  • Anthropologists study the cultural development of Homo sapiens.

Advanced Usage

• "Anatomically modern Homo sapiens": A term used in paleoanthropology to refer to early members of our species who had the same basic physical structure as humans today, distinguishing them from earlier, archaic forms.
  • Anatomically modern Homo sapiens had migrated across the globe by about 15,000 years ago.

Variants and Related Words

• Sapient (adj): Possessing great wisdom and discernment. (Derived from the Latin root of , meaning "wise.")
  • The philosopher was considered a sapient leader.
• Hominid (n): A member of the biological family Hominidae, which includes all great apes (humans, chimpanzees, gorillas, and orangutans) and their extinct ancestors.
• Human (n): A more common term for a member of the species .

Synonyms

• Modern humans
• Human beings
• Humankind (collectively)

Related Phrases / Concepts

• "Out of Africa" theory: The predominant model of the geographic origin and early migration of .
  • The "Out of Africa" theory posits that Homo sapiens originated in Africa and then dispersed to other continents.
• Cognitive revolution: A theoretical period marking the development of modern language and abstract thought in , leading to complex social structures and technology.

Noun

1. the only surviving hominid; species to which modern man belongs; bipedal primate having language and ability to make and use complex tools; brain volume at least 1400 cc