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
hueoverall character or appearance to the mind : complexion
winceto shrink back involuntarily (as from pain) : flinch
bandyto discuss lightly or banteringly
pastrya dough that is used to make pies and other baked goods and typically has a high fat content : paste
formidablecausing fear, dread, or apprehension
nondescriptbelonging or appearing to belong to no particular class or kind : not easily described
primaryfirst in order of time or development : primitive
oculistophthalmologist
sententiousgiven to or abounding in aphoristic expression
riderone that rides