How Do You Spell MULTIREGIONAL?

Pronunciation: [mˌʌltɪɹˈiːd͡ʒənə͡l] (IPA)

The word "multiregional" is spelled "muhl-tee-ree-jun-ul." The "mul-" is pronounced as "muhl-" with a short "u" sound, followed by "tee" with a long "e" sound. "Ree" is pronounced with a long "e" sound, and "jun" with a short "u" sound. The final "-al" is pronounced with a schwa sound. This word combines the prefix "multi-" meaning "many" with "regional" referring to a specific region, resulting in a term used to describe something occurring in multiple regions.

MULTIREGIONAL Meaning and Definition

1. Multiregional is an adjective that refers to the concept or theory of human evolution, particularly in relation to the existence and development of anatomically modern humans (Homo sapiens) in different regions of the world. The multiregional theory posits that human populations evolved independently, yet simultaneously, in multiple regions across the globe, leading to the development of the modern human species in different geographical areas.

   In the context of anthropology and paleoanthropology, the multiregional theory suggests that modern humans originated from a common hominid ancestor, such as Homo erectus, in different regions and gradually evolved into Homo sapiens through local adaptations and interbreeding between populations. This theory challenges the prevailing view of human evolution, known as the "Out of Africa" theory, which posits that Homo sapiens originated in Africa and then migrated and replaced other hominid populations in different parts of the world.

   Multiregionalism postulates that regional variations in skeletal features and genetic traits observed in modern humans are a result of long-term, parallel evolution within distinct geographical regions, rather than the result of a single population dispersing from a single center of origin.

   The term "multiregional" can also be used more broadly outside the context of human evolution to describe phenomena or concepts that span multiple regions or geographic areas, demonstrating a multi-location or regionalized characteristic.

Common Misspellings for MULTIREGIONAL

• Multidegiotae

Etymology of MULTIREGIONAL

The word "multiregional" is derived from two elements: "multi-" and "regional".

1. "Multi-": This prefix is from the Latin word "multus", meaning "many" or "much". It is commonly used to denote the presence or involvement of several or many things.

2. "Regional": This term is derived from the Latin word "regio", which means "area" or "region". It refers to a specific geographic area with distinct characteristics, boundaries, or features.

Therefore, "multiregional" combines the prefix "multi-" denoting the involvement of many things with "regional" referring to different geographic areas. Consequently, the term "multiregional" is used to describe or denote phenomena, concepts, or events that occur or exist in multiple or several different regions.