Caveman: meaning, definitions and examples
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caveman
[ ˈkeɪvˌmæn ]
prehistoric human
A caveman refers to a prehistoric human, particularly one who lived in caves during the Stone Age. This term is often used colloquially to describe early humans who are assumed to have had a crude lifestyle, relying on hunting and gathering for sustenance. The image of a caveman is commonly associated with stone tools, primitive art, and a nomadic lifestyle. Cavemen are often depicted in popular culture as brutish figures but are now understood to be early members of the genus Homo, who developed complex social structures and survival strategies.
Synonyms
Stone Age human, early human, primitive man.
Examples of usage
- The caveman used tools to hunt for food.
- In movies, the caveman is often portrayed as a strong but simple-minded character.
- Researchers study caveman artifacts to learn about prehistoric life.
Translations
Translations of the word "caveman" in other languages:
🇵🇹 homem das cavernas
🇮🇳 गुफानिवासी
🇩🇪 Höhlenmensch
🇮🇩 manusia gua
🇺🇦 печерна людина
🇵🇱 człowiek jaskiniowy
🇯🇵 洞窟人
🇫🇷 homme des cavernes
🇪🇸 hombre de las cavernas
🇹🇷 mağara adamı
🇰🇷 동굴인
🇸🇦 إنسان الكهف
🇨🇿 jaskyňský člověk
🇸🇰 jaskynný človek
🇨🇳 洞穴人
🇸🇮 jamski človek
🇮🇸 hellir maður
🇰🇿 үңгір адамы
🇬🇪 ღვინის ადამიანი
🇦🇿 mağara adamı
🇲🇽 hombre de las cavernas
Etymology
The term 'caveman' originates from the combination of the words 'cave' and 'man', reflecting the living conditions of early humans who are believed to have inhabited caves. Its use became prominent in the late 19th century as paleontologists and anthropologists began to study human evolution. The concept of the caveman became deeply embedded in popular culture, often caricatured in media as a representation of early human life. However, modern archaeology and anthropology have led to a more nuanced understanding of early hominins and their environments, challenging stereotypical representations of cavemen as mere brutish figures. By studying artifacts and fossils, scientists have gained insights into the complex societies these early humans formed, their communication abilities, and their survival strategies, painting a picture of a diverse and adaptable species.