Definition: Anthropoid is an adjective used to describe anything resembling a human being. In biology, it specifically refers to higher primates, including monkeys, apes, and humans.
Etymology & Origin: The term ‘anthropoid’ comes from the Greek word ‘anthrōpoeidēs,’ meaning ‘resembling a human,’ which is derived from ‘anthrōpos’ (human) and the suffix ‘-oid’ (resembling or like). The word entered the English language in the early 19th century.
Examples:
- The gorilla, chimpanzee, and orangutan are all classified as anthropoid apes due to their close genetic and anatomical similarities to humans.
- Fossil evidence suggests that early anthropoids evolved in Africa and then spread to other continents.
- The study of anthropoid primates provides valuable insights into human evolution and behaviour.
