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
detachedstanding by itself : separate
astigmatisma defect of an optical system (such as a lens) causing rays from a point to fail to meet in a focal point resulting in a blurred and imperfect image
disheveledmarked by disorder or disarray
flinchto withdraw or shrink from or as if from pain : wince
kudospraise given for achievement
homeostasisa relatively stable state of equilibrium or a tendency toward such a state between the different but interdependent elements or groups of elements of an organism, population, or group
ignominydeep personal humiliation and disgrace
slipshodwearing loose shoes or slippers
gustythe sensation of taste
bouillona clear seasoned soup made usually from lean beef