Pronunciation: /ˈætəˌvɪzəm/
noun a throwback to an earlier stage of evolution
A1 Some people believe that certain traits or behaviors are inherited through atavism.
A2 The scientist studied the phenomenon of atavism in animals to understand genetic evolution.
B1 The archaeologist discovered an ancient artifact that showed signs of atavism in its design.
B2 The geneticist conducted research on the presence of atavism in certain species to trace their evolutionary history.
C1 The concept of atavism plays a significant role in the study of evolutionary biology and genetics.
C2 The theory of atavism suggests that certain genetic traits can reappear after being dormant for generations.
formal The presence of a tail in some humans is considered an atavism, a throwback to our evolutionary ancestors.
informal I heard that having wisdom teeth is actually an atavism from our ancestors.
slang Dude, having a pinky toe that's separate from the rest is like a total atavism.
figurative His violent outburst was seen as an atavism of his family's history of aggression.
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