protohuman
Upper-Intermediate (B2)
IPA: /ˈproʊtəʊˌhjuːmən/
KK: /ˈproʊtoʊˌhjuːmən/
adjective
Definition
Relating to early forms of humans or human-like beings that existed in the past.
Example
Scientists discovered protohuman fossils that provide insight into our evolutionary history.
Conversation
I just read a fascinating article about protohuman species.
Really? That sounds interesting! What did it say?
It discussed how these early hominids were similar to us in many ways.
Wow, I never thought about how much we might share with protohuman ancestors.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
primitive
ancient
early
Antonyms
modern
advanced
contemporary
noun
Definition
A type of early human or human-like primate that is considered to be a precursor to modern humans.
Example
Scientists study protohumans to understand the evolution of our species.
Conversation
Have you ever read about protohumans?
Yeah, I find their evolution fascinating!
It's interesting to think about how they lived compared to us.
Root Explanation
Protohuman → It is formed from "proto-" (from Greek "protos", meaning first) and "human" (from Latin "humanus", meaning human or man). The word refers to the earliest or first stage of human development.
Memory Tip
Think of 'proto-' meaning 'first' and 'human' referring to people — together, they describe the earliest form of humans.
Visually Confused Words
prohuman