Atavistically meaning

The term "atavistically" refers to the reemergence of ancestral traits or characteristics in an individual.


Atavistically definitions

Word backwards yllacitsivata
Part of speech Adverb
Syllabic division at-a-vist-i-cal-ly
Plural The plural of the word "atavistically" is "atavistically."
Total letters 13
Vogais (2) a,i
Consonants (6) t,v,s,c,l,y

Atavistically refers to the reappearance of an ancestral trait in an organism that hasn't exhibited that particular trait for generations. This phenomenon occurs due to the reemergence of a gene that had been dormant or suppressed in the genetic makeup of the organism.

Origin of atavistically

The word atavistically originates from the Latin word "atavus," which means ancestor. This term is commonly used in biological contexts to describe the reappearance of ancestral traits in a species after being lost through generations of evolution.

Examples of atavistic traits

One common example of atavistically is the reappearance of a vestigial organ, such as the human tailbone or appendix, which no longer serve their original function but are remnants of our evolutionary ancestors. Another example is the reappearance of traits like webbed toes in humans, which are reminiscent of our aquatic ancestors.

Understanding atavistically in evolution

Atavistically serves as a reminder of the intricate genetic history of organisms and the complex interplay of genes that shape their physical attributes. While some atavistic traits may seem out of place in modern organisms, they provide valuable insights into the evolutionary processes that have shaped life on Earth.

Implications of atavistically in genetics

Studying atavistically can help researchers better understand the mechanisms behind the activation and suppression of genes over generations. This knowledge can have implications for genetic diseases and evolution, providing valuable information on how traits can reappear or disappear in populations.

In conclusion, atavistically is a fascinating concept that sheds light on the genetic and evolutionary history of organisms. By studying atavistically, scientists can gain a deeper understanding of the complex processes that have shaped life on our planet.


Atavistically Examples

  1. The character exhibited an atavistically aggressive behavior when confronted with danger.
  2. The tribe's ancient rituals were atavistically reenacted during the annual festival.
  3. His atavistically strong survival instincts kicked in when he found himself lost in the wilderness.
  4. The atavistically long claws of the prehistoric creature were a fearsome sight to behold.
  5. She felt an atavistic connection to the land, as if her ancestors' spirits still lingered there.
  6. The atavistically traditional clothing worn by the villagers reflected their deep-rooted cultural heritage.
  7. His atavistic fear of snakes stemmed from a deep-seated ancestral memory of danger.
  8. The old castle was atavistically preserved, transporting visitors back in time to a bygone era.
  9. The ancient ruins stood as a testament to the atavistic power of time and nature.
  10. She felt atavistically drawn to the ancient music, as if it resonated with her very soul.


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  • Updated 28/06/2024 - 00:13:32