atavist Definition
a person or thing that represents a recurrence of an ancestral trait or characteristic.
Using atavist: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "atavist" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
The author is an atavist who writes about ancient civilizations.
Example
His behavior was an atavistic response to the threat.
Example
The building's design is an atavistic nod to the city's architectural history.
atavist Synonyms and Antonyms
Phrases with atavist
an instinctive or primitive fear, often associated with a particular situation or object
Example
Her atavistic fear of snakes made it difficult for her to go hiking in the woods.
atavistic tendencies
behavior or traits that are characteristic of an earlier time or era
Example
The politician's atavistic tendencies were criticized for being out of touch with modern society.
a renewed interest or appreciation for something from the past
Example
The atavistic resurgence of vinyl records has led to a boom in sales for record stores.
Origins of atavist
from Latin 'atavus', meaning 'ancestor'
Summary: atavist in Brief
'Atavist' [ˈætəvɪst] refers to a person or thing that represents a recurrence of an ancestral trait or characteristic. It can be used to describe behavior, design, or writing that harkens back to an earlier time or era. Phrases like 'atavistic fear' and 'atavistic tendencies' denote instinctive or primitive behavior or traits. 'Atavistic resurgence' describes a renewed interest or appreciation for something from the past.
