NEANDERTHALIAN Meaning and
Definition
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Neanderthalian is an adjective that pertains to or characteristic of Neanderthals, an extinct species of human that inhabited parts of Europe and Asia approximately 400,000 to 40,000 years ago during the Pleistocene epoch. This term originates from the name Neanderthal, which is derived from the Neander Valley (German: Neandertal) near Düsseldorf, Germany, where the first fossilized remains of this prehistoric human were discovered in 1856.
When used figuratively, neanderthalian describes someone or something that exhibits behavior, qualities, or traits perceived as primitive, uncivilized, or archaic. It often implies a lack of refinement, sophistication, or cultural development. The term may be utilized to criticize individuals or groups who exhibit brute strength, lack of intellectual capacity, or a resistance to progress or change.
However, it is important to note that in recent years, significant scientific advancements have revealed that Neanderthals were far more sophisticated and culturally advanced than previously believed. They were capable of making tools, creating artwork, and even engaging in ritualistic behavior. Consequently, using the term neanderthalian in modern contexts can be seen as outdated and misleading.
In summary, neanderthalian refers either to the Neanderthal species of humans that existed in the distant past, or it can be an adjective used figuratively to describe behaviors or characteristics perceived as primitive, uncivilized, or archaic.
Common Misspellings for NEANDERTHALIAN
- beanderthalian
- meanderthalian
- jeanderthalian
- heanderthalian
- nwanderthalian
- nsanderthalian
- ndanderthalian
- nranderthalian
- n4anderthalian
- n3anderthalian
- neznderthalian
- nesnderthalian
- newnderthalian
- neqnderthalian
- neabderthalian
- neamderthalian
- neajderthalian
- neahderthalian
- neanserthalian
Etymology of NEANDERTHALIAN
The word "Neanderthalian" is derived from "Neanderthal", which itself comes from the Neander Valley (German: Neandertal) in Germany. The Neander Valley was named after Joachim Neander, a German theologian, who used to frequent the area in the 17th century. The name was coined by William King in 1863 to describe the fossil remains of an extinct human species found in that valley. The species was subsequently named Homo neanderthalensis or Neanderthals. Over time, the adjective form "Neanderthalian" emerged to describe traits or characteristics associated with Neanderthals.
Similar spelling words for NEANDERTHALIAN
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