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
metaphora figure of speech in which a word or phrase literally denoting one kind of object or idea is used in place of another to suggest a likeness or analogy between them (as in drowning in money)
rhapsodizeto speak or write in a rhapsodic manner
hazymade dim or cloudy by or as if by fine dust, smoke, or light vapor in the air : obscured by or as if by haze (see haze
viandan item of food
predatoran organism that primarily obtains food by the killing and consuming of other organisms : an organism that lives by predation
funerealof or relating to a funeral
shacklesomething (such as a manacle or fetter) that confines the legs or arms
dislodgeto drive from a position of hiding, defense, or advantage
sanctiona formal decree
ineffectualnot producing the proper or intended effect : futile