When we talk about “primitive man”, we usually talk about cavemen and other species that existed many years ago, but if someone’s uncle grunts while laughing and chewing with his mouth open, we can also use this word to descriptions. So what does the word primitive mean ? Interesting? Let's find out!
What does primitive mean: connection with the natural world
The word primitive is closely related to the word prime, and the root of both words is primus, which in Latin means the first. Since the phrase "primitive man" is most often used in relation to the first people on planet Earth, one might think that the word "primate" has something to do with the similarities between early humans and monkeys, but in reality this is far from the case. People call monkeys primates, because they are considered as animals standing on the first or highest step of the ladder of the animal world.
Nevertheless, from the same scientists we often hear the phrase “primitive organisms”, which seems to have become stable. Why do they use it? What does primitive and primitive mean? Find out more values further.
Other values
What does primitive mean? The fact is that this word can be used to denote various characteristics. So, the primitive adjective can be used in relation to a morally undeveloped person (like an uncle who talks when he eats).
At the same time, such words as simple or elementary serve as synonyms for this word. A primitive organism is an organism that is not distinguished by the particular complexity of the structure. We can use the word primitive to characterize many things. For example, literary critics may say: "The idea of this book is too primitive!" In this case, what does primitive mean? By this, they will mean that the idea of the book is not deep enough and perhaps too simplistic.