dryopithecine
Upper-Intermediate (B2)
IPA: //ˌdraɪəˈpɪθəˌsiːn//
KK: /ˈdraɪəˌpɪθəˌsiːn/
adjective
Definition
Relating to a group of extinct primates that are believed to be ancestors of modern apes and humans.
Example
The dryopithecine fossils provide important insights into the evolution of primates.
Conversation
Did you know that the dryopithecine species were some of our earliest ancestors?
Really? I never heard of them before!
Yeah, they lived millions of years ago and were quite fascinating.
That sounds interesting! I should read more about dryopithecine evolution.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
primate
ape
hominid
Antonyms
wet
moist
damp
noun
Definition
An extinct type of ape that lived during the Miocene and Pliocene periods, thought to be related to the ancestors of modern humans and other apes.
Example
Scientists discovered new fossils of a dryopithecine that shed light on the evolution of early apes.
Conversation
Have you ever heard of the dryopithecine?
No, I haven't! What is it?
It's an extinct ape that lived millions of years ago, kind of a distant ancestor of humans.
Root Explanation
Dryopithecine → It is formed from "dryops" (from Greek "druos", meaning tree) and "-ithecus" (from Greek "ithēkos", meaning ape). The word refers to a group of ancient apes that lived in trees, highlighting their arboreal nature.
Memory Tip
Imagine ancient apes living in trees — 'dryops' means tree, and '-ithecus' refers to apes. This helps you remember that 'dryopithecine' relates to tree-dwelling apes.
Visually Confused Words
No commonly confused words.