hominids - Master This Word
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hominids Word Meanings
- a member of the biological family that includes humans and their ancestors
- a primate of the family Hominidae which includes modern humans, extinct human species, and their immediate ancestors
hominids Example Sentences
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hominids Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈhɒm.ɪ.nɪd/
US
/ˈhɑː.mɪ.nɪd/
hominids Word Etymology
Root: 'homo' (Latin for 'man') + suffix '-nid' (indicating family or group). Historical origin: from Latin 'hominidæ', from Greek 'homo'. Memory image: picture a family tree where humans and their ancestors branch out, highlighting the deep connections shared through evolution.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputReal Context
Hominid is a term used in biology and anthropology to refer to members of the family Hominidae, which includes humans and their direct ancestors. In everyday usage, it is common to distinguish hominids from other primates, while noting that the modern human species, Homo sapiens, is the only surviving member. The term helps learners discuss evolution, fossils, and traits shared across the family, such as bipedal locomotion and larger brains. In academic writing, 'hominid' can cover both extinct species and living humans; careful context is essential to avoid confusion with more specific terms like 'hominin' or 'Homo'.
Usage Reminders
- Remember the plural: hominids; use 'hominid' for a single member. Distinguish from Homo/Homo sapiens; not every primate is a hominid. When discussing fossils, keep it broad or precise with 'hominid fossil' or 'early hominids'. Be clear whether you mean extinct species or living humans. Avoid confusing with 'hominin'. Check field context in academic writing.
Common Misconceptions
- Hominid = modern humans only
- Hominid = a genus name like Homo
- Hominid = all primates
- Hominid = only fossils
- Hominid = a subspecies of humans
Thinking Differences
Explain to an English speaker (meta, keep short)
Learning Tips
- Practice with common collocations like 'hominid fossil' and 'early hominids'
- Remember plural: 'hominids'
- Use context to decide broad vs narrow meaning
- Keep straight the difference between 'hominid', 'hominin', and 'Homo'
- Read science texts to see how experts apply the term
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