Langimage
English

caveman

|cave-man|

B1

/ˈkeɪvˌmæn/

prehistoric human

Etymology
Etymology Information

'caveman' originates from the English words 'cave' and 'man', where 'cave' meant 'a large underground chamber' and 'man' referred to 'a human being'.

Historical Evolution

'caveman' was formed by combining the words 'cave' and 'man' in English, reflecting the idea of early humans living in caves.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it referred specifically to prehistoric humans living in caves, but over time it has also come to describe someone perceived as primitive or uncivilized.

Meanings by Part of Speech

Noun 1

a prehistoric human who lived in caves.

The caveman used simple tools made of stone.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:45