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
reprieveto delay the punishment of (someone, such as a condemned prisoner)
arch-a typically curved structural member spanning an opening and serving as a support (as for the wall or other weight above the opening)
resolveto deal with successfully : clear up
circuitoushaving a circular or winding course
polyglotone who is polyglot
aberrationthe fact or an instance of deviating or being aberrant especially from a moral standard or normal state
pretensionan allegation of doubtful value : pretext
inarticulateincapable of giving coherent, clear, or effective expression to one's ideas or feelings
welterwrithe
tepidmoderately warm : lukewarm