Definition

In a way that is a remnant or leftover from an earlier stage of development, often referring to something that has lost its original function or significance.

Example

The organ is vestigially present in some species, indicating its evolutionary past.

Conversation

I was reading about evolution, and it mentioned how some features are vestigially present in modern species.

Oh really? Like what kind of features are we talking about?

For example, some snakes still have tiny leg bones that are vestigially left over from their ancestors.

That's fascinating! It’s amazing how much history is hidden in our biology.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Vestigially → It is formed from "vestigium" (meaning footprint or trace) and the suffix "-ally" (meaning in a manner relating to). The word "vestigially" refers to something that exists in a trace or remnant form, often indicating a reduced or less functional state.

Memory Tip

Think of a 'trace' or 'footprint' ('vestigium') that remains from something larger, and remember that 'vestigially' describes something that exists in a reduced or remnant form.

Visually Confused Words