simian
/'simiən/
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
Adjective:
- Relating to or resembling an ape or monkey: Used to describe characteristics, features, or behaviors that are typical of or similar to those of apes or monkeys.
Noun:
- An ape or monkey: A member of the biological group Simiiformes, which includes monkeys and apes (including humans in a broad biological sense).
Usage Examples
Adjective:
- The fossil showed distinct simian characteristics in its jaw structure.
- His long arms and stooped posture gave him a somewhat simian appearance.
Noun:
- The zoo's primate exhibit featured various simians, including chimpanzees and capuchin monkeys.
- The study compared the cognitive abilities of different simians.
Advanced Usage
In biological/evolutionary context: Used to discuss traits shared within the primate group.
- The research focused on the simian lineage's adaptation to arboreal life.
In a figurative or sometimes derogatory sense: Used to describe human behavior or appearance perceived as crude or primitive, resembling that of apes.
- The critic described the character's movements as awkward and simian.
Variants and Related Words
- Simian crease (n): A single transverse palmar crease, a feature sometimes associated with certain genetic conditions, so named for its resemblance to the palm lines in some apes.
- Simiiformes (n): The infraorder of primates that includes monkeys and apes (the simians).
Synonyms
- Primate (n): A broader term for the order of mammals that includes simians, as well as prosimians (e.g., lemurs).
- Anthropoid (adj/n): Pertaining to or resembling a human or ape; can be used similarly to "simian," especially in older scientific texts.
Antonyms
- Non-simian (adj): Not of or like apes or monkeys. (This is a constructed antonym for clarity).
- Human (adj/n): Specifically referring to modern humans (), often contrasted with simian traits in evolutionary discussions.
Related Phrases/Idioms
- Simian virus (n phrase): Any of a number of viruses originally identified in or associated with monkeys or apes (e.g., Simian virus 40, SV40).
- The vaccine was thoroughly tested to ensure it contained no trace of simian viruses.
Adjective
- relating to or resembling an ape
- simian features
Noun
- an ape or monkey