The term “ape-man” is one that has been used in various contexts, from scientific research to popular culture. It is a term that has been used to describe the hypothetical evolutionary link between humans and apes, as well as a fictional character in movies and literature. In this article, we will explore the definition, origin, meaning, associations, synonyms, antonyms, and examples of the term “ape-man.”
Definitions
The term “ape-man” refers to a hypothetical evolutionary link between humans and apes. It is used to describe a creature that possesses characteristics of both humans and apes, such as an upright posture, opposable thumbs, and a large brain. The term is also used to describe a fictional character in movies and literature, typically portrayed as a wild and savage creature with animalistic qualities.
Origin
The concept of the ape-man dates back to the 19th century, when scientists began to study the evolutionary relationship between humans and apes. The first known fossil of a human ancestor was discovered in 1856, and since then, numerous fossils and artifacts have been found that provide evidence of human evolution. The term “ape-man” was first coined in the early 20th century, when scientists began to use it to describe the hypothetical transitional stage between apes and humans.
Meaning in different dictionaries
The term “ape-man” is defined differently in various dictionaries. According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, an ape-man is “a hypothetical intermediate between ape and human.” The Oxford English Dictionary defines it as “a creature that is part ape and part human, or that is believed to be a missing link between the two.” The Cambridge Dictionary defines it as “a creature that is part human and part ape, or a fictional character that is a wild and savage creature with animalistic qualities.”
Associations
The term “ape-man” is associated with various scientific and cultural concepts. In science, it is associated with the study of human evolution and the search for the missing link between humans and apes. In popular culture, it is associated with fictional characters such as Tarzan, who is often portrayed as an ape-man with superhuman strength and agility.
Synonyms
The term “ape-man” has several synonyms, including hominid, hominoid, and humanoid. These terms are used to describe creatures that possess characteristics of both humans and apes, and are often used interchangeably with the term “ape-man.”
Antonyms
The antonyms of “ape-man” are “fully human” and “fully ape.” These terms are used to describe creatures that are either entirely human or entirely ape, with no characteristics of the other species.
The same root words
The term “ape-man” has no root words, as it is a compound word made up of the words “ape” and “man.”
Example Sentences
- Scientists are still searching for the missing link between humans and apes, also known as the ape-man.
- In the movie “Tarzan,” the main character is portrayed as an ape-man with incredible strength and agility.
- The discovery of a new hominid fossil has provided further evidence of the evolutionary link between humans and apes.
- Some people believe that the idea of the ape-man is nothing more than a myth or a work of fiction.
- The study of human evolution has led to many new discoveries about the origins of the ape-man.