Definition

Proper noun 1. A subspecies of archaic human (Homo erectus pekinensis): Refers to a population of early humans known from fossil discoveries made near Beijing (formerly Peking), China. These fossils are estimated to be from approximately 750,000 to 200,000 years ago. 2. The specific fossil specimens: Often used to refer to the original collection of bones and skulls discovered at Zhoukoudian, which were famously lost during World War II.

Usage Examples

• Proper noun:
  • The discovery of Peking Man provided crucial evidence for the theory of human evolution in Asia.
  • Scientists study casts of Peking Man because the original fossils are missing.

Advanced Usage

• In paleoanthropological context: The term is used to discuss morphological features, lifestyle, and the place of in the human family tree.
  • The analysis of Peking Man tools suggests the controlled use of fire.

Variants and Related Words

• Homo erectus (n): The broader species to which Peking Man belongs.
• Sinanthropus pekinensis (n): An older, obsolete taxonomic name for Peking Man.
• Zhoukoudian (n): The archaeological site near Beijing where the Peking Man fossils were found.

Synonyms

• Homo erectus pekinensis (Scientific name)

Notes on Meaning

• The term specifically refers to the East Asian population of . It is not a synonym for all fossils, which are found across Africa and Eurasia.
• The lost fossils remain one of the most famous mysteries in paleoanthropology.

Noun

1. fossils found near Beijing, China; they were lost during World War II