atavism Synonyms

atavism Meaning

Wordnet

atavism (n)

a reappearance of an earlier characteristic

Webster

atavism (n.)

The recurrence, or a tendency to a recurrence, of the original type of a species in the progeny of its varieties; resemblance to remote rather than to near ancestors; reversion to the original form.

The recurrence of any peculiarity or disease of an ancestor in a subsequent generation, after an intermission for a generation or two.

atavism Sentence Examples

  1. The appearance of wings on the human back is considered an atavism, reminiscent of our evolutionary past.
  2. The scientist studied the occurrence of atavism in certain species to understand genetic evolution better.
  3. Despite the advancements in medicine, atavism occasionally manifests in rare genetic disorders.
  4. The emergence of primitive traits in the offspring was attributed to atavism by the geneticist.
  5. Some viewed his fascination with ancient weaponry as an atavism, a connection to a bygone era.
  6. The sudden appearance of a tail in the newborn was explained as an atavism, harkening back to ancestral traits.
  7. In literature, the atavism of the protagonist often symbolizes a return to primal instincts.
  8. The conservation of certain ancient rituals in modern society is regarded as an atavism, preserving cultural heritage.
  9. The resurgence of tribalism in politics has been described as an atavism, reflecting primitive group dynamics.
  10. The atavism displayed by the feral child raised questions about the influence of environment versus genetics on human behavior.

FAQs About the word atavism

a reappearance of an earlier characteristicThe recurrence, or a tendency to a recurrence, of the original type of a species in the progeny of its varieties; res

reversion, regression, return, retrogression,relapse, lapse, degeneration,backslide, nondevelopment,decline

development, advancement, evolution, progression, development,evolution, advancement, progression,growth, gestation

The appearance of wings on the human back is considered an atavism, reminiscent of our evolutionary past.

The scientist studied the occurrence of atavism in certain species to understand genetic evolution better.

Despite the advancements in medicine, atavism occasionally manifests in rare genetic disorders.

The emergence of primitive traits in the offspring was attributed to atavism by the geneticist.