Cavemen Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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cavemen
[ˈkeɪvˌmɛn ]
Definition
prehistoric humans
Cavemen refer to ancient human beings who lived in caves or other primitive shelters, especially during the Paleolithic era. They are often characterized by their use of stone tools, hunting and gathering lifestyle, and rudimentary forms of social organization. The term can also evoke images of early human art, as many cavemen are known for creating paintings and carvings on cave walls.
Synonyms
Stone Age man, early human, primitive man.
Examples of usage
- Cavemen lived thousands of years ago.
- The documentary showed how cavemen hunted for food.
- Cavemen created beautiful art in their caves.
- Archaeologists study cavemen to learn about early human life.
Translations
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Origin of 'cavemen'
The term 'caveman' is derived from the combination of 'cave' and 'man', which reflects the association of early humans with the natural shelters they utilized for living. It started to gain popularity in the 19th century as science and anthropology began to explore human evolution and prehistoric cultures. The concept of cavemen evokes the image of a rugged, bipedal hominin, often depicted as having a hairy body and a brute demeanor. Early archaeological discoveries, particularly those of cave dwellings in Europe, contributed to the understanding of these early societies, revealing their lifestyle, diet, and social structures. Over time, 'caveman' has emerged not only as a term in scientific discussions but also as a cultural reference in media, often portraying primitive human behavior and survival instincts.