Primate
ˈpraɪmɪt
Definitions
2 meaningsAny mammal of the order Primates, characterized by grasping hands and feet, forward-facing eyes, and a relatively large brain.
ˈpraɪmɪt
An order of mammals including humans, apes, monkeys, and lemurs.
Humans are primates.
💡 Simply: Imagine you have a family, and some of your family members are monkeys, apes, and you! You are all part of the primate family because you have similar body parts.
👶 For kids: A monkey, an ape, or a human is called a primate.
More Examples
The primate exhibit was the most popular at the zoo.
Scientists study primate behavior to learn more about human evolution.
How It's Used
"Chimpanzees are considered intelligent primates."
"The study of primate behavior helps us understand human evolution."
Relating to or characteristic of the primates.
ˈpraɪmɪt
Relating to or characteristic of primates.
Primate characteristics include forward-facing eyes.
💡 Simply: Having the special qualities of the primate family.
👶 For kids: Something that's about monkeys, apes, and people.
More Examples
The museum displayed primate fossils from different eras.
How It's Used
"Primate anatomy is studied in comparative biology."
From Latin *primas* (of the first rank, chief), ultimately from *primus* (first). Used initially in zoology to describe the 'first' or highest order of mammals.
The term was coined in the 18th century by Carl Linnaeus, who classified humans and other mammals together.
Memory tip
Think of 'prime' animals: the most advanced, like us and our close relatives. Primates are at the 'prime' of mammalian evolution.