Atavist Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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atavist
[หรฆtษหvษชst ]
Definition
biological concept
An atavist is an individual or organism that exhibits traits or characteristics that are reminiscent of ancestral or earlier forms. This term often refers to the reappearance of genetic traits that have been absent for several generations. Such traits can be physical attributes, behaviors, or instincts that were prevalent in the ancestors of a species. Atavism usually arises due to genetic variations or mutations that might reactivate dormant genes. The concept is frequently discussed in the fields of genetics, biology, and anthropology.
Synonyms
anomaly, reversion, throwback.
Examples of usage
- The atavist traits in the dog were surprising to the breeder.
- Scientists studied the atavist features of the ancient species.
- The atavist behavior of the bird amazed the observers.
- Some atavists have been documented in human evolution studies.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Psychology
- Some psychologists suggest that atavistic behavior reflects our primitive instincts, which can resurface in modern times.
- The concept is tied to the idea of regression, where a person might revert to earlier behavioral patterns under stress.
- Studies show that certain juvenile behaviors might be atavistic, as they echo survival traits from our ancestors.
Literature
- Charles Dickens and Thomas Hardy used atavistic characters to critique social issues and human nature.
- In literature, an atavist might represent a struggle between modernity and primal instincts, often leading to conflicts.
- Atavistic themes explore the tension between civilization and nature, focusing on humanity's primitive past.
Pop Culture
- Films like 'Jurassic Park' reflect atavistic ideas by resurrecting dinosaurs, which symbolize returning to our primal roots.
- Some horror movies feature atavistic characters, embodying ancient fears or instincts that resonate with audiences.
- The concept of the 'wild man' found in stories and folklore often highlights atavistic traits as a contrast to civilization.
Anthropology
- Anthropologists study atavistic traits to understand how early humans lived and survived in changing environments.
- Examinations of human skeletal remains can reveal atavistic features, providing insights into ancient lifestyles.
- Atavism can be indicative of evolutionary traits that persist in certain populations due to geographical isolation.
Origin of 'atavist'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Latin 'atavus,' which means 'forefather' or 'ancestor.'
- It was first used in the late 19th century to describe individuals exhibiting characteristics of earlier generations.
- In genetics, atavism refers to traits that reappear after skipping generations.
The term 'atavist' derives from the Latin word 'atavus', meaning 'ancestor' or 'forefather'. The root 'atavus' is compounded with the suffix '-ist', which denotes a person associated with a specific characteristic or set of beliefs. The idea of atavism emerged in the late 19th century, particularly in the context of evolutionary biology and psychology, to describe the emergence of primitive traits that were once common in earlier generations of a species. The concept gained traction in various scientific discussions, particularly those surrounding the theory of evolution proposed by Charles Darwin. Over time, 'atavist' has been applied in broader contexts, including literature and art, to denote aspects that evoke or link back to earlier, often more primitive, states of being.