GRE Word List

ATAVISM

recurrence in an organism of a trait or character typical of an ancestral form and usually due to genetic recombination

The meaning of the word atavism is recurrence in an organism of a trait or character typical of an ancestral form and usually due to genetic recombination.

Random words

WordMeaning
gawka clumsy stupid person : lout
warpa series of yarns extended lengthwise in a loom and crossed by the weft
astronomicalof or relating to astronomy
reprieveto delay the punishment of (someone, such as a condemned prisoner)
cherubican order of angels see celestial hierarchy
catalysta substance that enables a chemical reaction to proceed at a usually faster rate or under different conditions (as at a lower temperature) than otherwise possible
seepto flow or pass slowly through fine pores or small openings : ooze
bacchanalorgy
juggernauta massive inexorable force, campaign, movement, or object that crushes whatever is in its path
vanguardthe forefront of an action or movement