How Do You Spell ATAVIC?

Pronunciation: [atˈavɪk] (IPA)

The word "Atavic" is spelled using a combination of phonetically pronounced letters. In IPA (International Phonetic Alphabet), it is spelled as /əˈtævɪk/. The first syllable, "a", is pronounced with a schwa sound, followed by a "t" sound. The stress falls on the second syllable, where the "a" is pronounced with a short form, followed by a "v" sound, and ends with an "ik" sound. Despite its unconventional spelling, "Atavic" is a word that is related to primal or ancient characteristics.

ATAVIC Meaning and Definition

1. Atavic is an adjective that refers to something pertaining to or reminiscent of a primitive, ancestral, or ancient quality, behavior, or characteristic. It is derived from the term "atavism," which describes the reappearance of a trait or feature that had been lost or dormant in previous generations, but suddenly reoccurs in an individual.

   When used in the context of describing a person, an atavic characteristic implies a connection to their ancestors or an ancient lineage. It suggests a return to more primal instincts or instincts reminiscent of those from a bygone era. For instance, an atavic behavior might be seen in an individual who, despite living in a modern society, demonstrates an inclination towards hunting, gathering, or living in close relationship with nature, thus reflecting a resemblance to their primitive ancestors.

   In a broader sense, the term atavic can also apply to any object, animal, or behavior that exhibits qualities associated with an earlier, more primal period in history. This could refer to architectural designs, artistic styles, animal behaviors, or cultural practices. The atavic nature of something implies a connection to a time long past, reminding us of the evolution and development that has occurred throughout history.

   Ultimately, "atavic" encompasses the idea of ancestral roots and a return to more primitive or ancient qualities, either in individuals or within the broader context of the world.

2. Atavistic.

   A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.

Common Misspellings for ATAVIC

• ztavic
• wtavic
• qtavic
• afavic
• ayavic
• a6avic
• a5avic
• atzvic
• atsvic
• atwvic
• atqvic
• atagic
• atafic
• atavuc
• atavjc
• atavkc
• atavoc
• atav9c
• atav8c

Etymology of ATAVIC

The word "atavic" is derived from the Latin word "atavus", which means "great-great-grandparent" or "ancestor". It comes from the phrase "ab avo", meaning "from a grandfather", with "ab" meaning "from" and "avo" meaning "grandfather". Over time, "ab avo" evolved into "atavus" and eventually gave rise to the English term "atavistic" or "atavic". This term is commonly used to describe a trait or characteristic that is reminiscent of an ancestral or archaic period.