Atavist
7 lettersnounrareUpdated June 2026
Definition
An organism or individual displaying traits characteristic of a more primitive ancestral type.
“Some scientists described the anatomical feature as marking the individual as an evolutionary atavist.”
Pronunciation
Syllables
at·a·vist
Related Words
Synonyms
throwback
Word Game Tips
🟩
Wordle
Ends in -VIST, a pattern shared with ACTIVIST, the ATA- opening is less common
🔤
Scrabble
The V scores four points and the -IST ending is a useful suffix for extending the ATAV- root
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