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Paleolithic Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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paleolithic

[ˌpeɪliəˈlɪθɪk ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

prehistoric period

Paleolithic refers to the earliest period of human history, marked by the development of stone tools and the use of fire. This era, often termed the 'Old Stone Age', spans from approximately 2.6 million years ago to around 10,000 years ago. During this time, humans were primarily nomadic hunters and gatherers, depending on their environment for food. The Paleolithic period laid the foundation for subsequent developments in human culture, social structures, and technology.

Synonyms

Old Stone Age, ancient, prehistoric.

Examples of usage

  • Paleolithic cave paintings have been discovered in numerous locations.
  • The Paleolithic diet mimics the eating habits of our prehistoric ancestors.
  • Archaeologists study Paleolithic artifacts to understand early human life.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Prehistory

  • This era spans from approximately 2.6 million years ago until around 10,000 BCE.
  • Early humans during this time were primarily hunter-gatherers, relying on wild animals and plants for food.
  • The discovery of fire, likely during the Lower Paleolithic, was a major advancement for cooking and protection.

Art and Culture

  • Paleolithic people created some of the earliest known artworks, including cave paintings in places like Lascaux in France.
  • Venus figurines, such as the Venus of Willendorf, reflect early humans' values and beliefs about fertility and beauty.
  • Music may have also been present, with some evidence suggesting early instruments made of bone.

Technology

  • Tool-making techniques evolved significantly, with advancements from simple choppers to complex blade tools.
  • Materials used for tools included flint, bone, and wood, showcasing the resourcefulness of early humans.
  • The use of the Atlatl, a spear-throwing device, improved hunting efficiency during this era.

Geology and Environment

  • The Paleolithic era coincided with dramatic climatic changes, including the Ice Ages, impacting human migration.
  • The shifting landscapes allowed for diverse habitats, influencing the lifestyles and diets of hunter-gatherers.
  • Archaeological sites across the world provide evidence of adaptation to local environments, from tundras to forests.

Origin of 'paleolithic'

Main points about word origin

  • The term 'Paleolithic' comes from Greek words 'palaios' meaning 'old' and 'lithos' meaning 'stone.'
  • It was first used in 1865 by archaeologist John Lubbock to describe the prehistoric era.
  • The Paleolithic era is typically divided into three periods: Lower, Middle, and Upper Paleolithic, based on the complexity of tools.

The term 'Paleolithic' is derived from the Greek words 'palaios', meaning 'old', and 'lithos', meaning 'stone'. It was first used in the 19th century by archaeologists to describe the earliest known period of human culture characterized by the production of stone tools. This classification emerged as scholars began to understand the vast timeline of human development and the significant shifts in technology and lifestyle that occurred over millennia. The Paleolithic period is foundational to the study of human evolution, as it encapsulates the time when Homo sapiens first emerged and adapted to various environments. As research into archaeology and anthropology advanced, the importance of the Paleolithic era became increasingly recognized, leading to numerous discoveries of artifacts, cave paintings, and signs of early human social structures that provide valuable insights into the lives of our ancestors.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #35,740, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.