Finesentence mobile logo
Sign in Login / Register

Troglodyte Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

🏕️
Add to dictionary

troglodyte

[trɒɡlədaɪt ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

historical, anthropology

A troglodyte refers to a member of a prehistoric people who lived in caves, often associated with primitive lifestyles. The term can also be used more broadly to describe someone who is regarded as deliberately ignorant or old-fashioned. In modern slang, it can denote a person who prefers to live in seclusion, often away from modern society. The word carries connotations of both physical dwelling and cultural mindset.

Synonyms

cave dweller, hermit, primitive, recluse.

Examples of usage

  • The troglodytes of ancient times left fascinating artifacts.
  • He chose the life of a troglodyte, retreating to the mountains.
  • Critics called the writer a troglodyte for not embracing modern ideas.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Origin of 'troglodyte'

The word 'troglodyte' originates from the Greek 'troglodytes', which comes from 'trogle', meaning 'hole' or 'cave', combined with 'dyein', meaning 'to enter'. This term was historically used to describe various cave-dwelling peoples in ancient narratives and classical literature. In geological and anthropological studies, troglodytes often referred to prehistoric humans who utilized caves for housing, safety, and storage. Over time, the term has evolved into a pejorative in modern usage, applying to individuals perceived as out of touch with contemporary advancements or living a hermit-like existence. This evolution reflects both the anthropological roots and the commentary on social behaviors in modern culture, highlighting the juxtaposition between development and regression.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #39,603, 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.