The Complete Vocabulary Builder Workbook

atavistic

IPA

Dictionary definition of atavistic

Traits or behaviors that have reappeared after being dormant for many generations.
"The eerie howl of the wolf awakened an atavistic fear deep within her."

Detailed meaning of atavistic

Atavistic is an adjective that describes something that is characteristic of an earlier ancestral type or reminiscent of more primitive or ancestral traits. It is often used in biology to describe the reappearance of ancestral characteristics that were previously thought to have been lost in a particular species. For example, a bird may display atavistic wing feathers, which were present in its ancient ancestors but have not been seen in more recent generations. In a cultural or psychological context, atavistic can refer to behavior or values that are perceived to be primitive or uncivilized, or to a resurgence of historical or traditional customs or practices. The term is often used to suggest a throwback to a less evolved or less developed state.

Example sentences containing atavistic

1. Her atavistic fear of the dark, an ancient instinct, still sent shivers down her spine, despite modern comforts.
2. The atavistic urge to hunt and gather resurfaced when they ventured into the untamed wilderness.
3. His atavistic loyalty to family values mirrored the traditions of his ancestors.
4. The atavistic patterns of migration in the animal kingdom continue to fascinate scientists.
5. The atavistic connection to ancestral lands fueled their sense of belonging.
6. In moments of crisis, our atavistic fight-or-flight instincts can take over.

History and etymology of atavistic

The adjective 'atavistic' has its origins in the Latin word 'atavus,' which means 'great-great-great-grandfather' or 'ancestor.' In Latin, 'atavus' was a term used to refer to one's remote ancestors. Over time, this term evolved into 'atavistic' in English, describing traits or behaviors that have reappeared after lying dormant for many generations. The concept of atavism is rooted in the idea that certain characteristics or tendencies may skip several generations only to resurface unexpectedly, reflecting traits from distant ancestors. The etymology of 'atavistic' highlights its connection to ancestral heritage and the resurgence of long-dormant qualities, offering insight into its usage to describe such phenomena in contemporary contexts.

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Further usage examples of atavistic

1. The atavistic rituals of their culture had survived for countless generations.
2. The atavistic sense of community within the tribe remained unshaken.
3. The atavistic desire for dominance emerged in their competitive behaviors.
4. Despite urbanization, some atavistic customs held strong in rural areas.
5. His atavistic fascination with fire harkened back to ancient rituals.
6. The atavistic impulse to protect their offspring was a powerful force.
7. The atavistic reverence for natural elements was deeply rooted.
8. Her atavistic suspicion of strangers stemmed from ancestral caution.
9. The atavistic bonds of kinship were celebrated in their traditions.
10. In times of scarcity, atavistic survival skills became essential.
11. The atavistic longing for simpler times persisted in their art.
12. The atavistic yearning for adventure drove them to explore new lands.
13. Their atavistic respect for elders was a cherished value.
14. The atavistic fear of predators haunted their collective memory.
15. The atavistic response to danger was swift and coordinated.
16. His atavistic instincts for navigation guided them through the wilderness.
17. The atavistic echoes of ancient languages still lingered in their speech.
18. The atavistic connection to the stars played a role in their mythology.
19. The atavistic pull of the ocean drew them to its shores for generations.