Vestigial - Meaning, Definition & English Examples
Vestigial refers to a body part, organ, or behavior that has lost its original function through evolution but remains in a reduced or rudimentary form, such as the human appendix.
Definition:
Relating to a remnant of something that was once larger or more noticeable, now reduced in function or size.
Synonyms:
residual, remnant, rudimentary, atrophied
Part of Speech:
adjective
Antonyms:
functional, developed, prominent
Common Collocations:
vestigial organ, vestigial structure, vestigial trait
Derivatives:
vestige, vestigially
Usage Tips:
Use "vestigial" to describe body parts or traits that have lost most of their original function through evolution.
Common Phrases:
vestigial remains, vestigial evidence, vestigial memory
Etymology:
From Latin "vestīgium" meaning "footprint" or "trace," referring to a remaining mark of something no longer present.
Examples:
- 1. The appendix is a vestigial organ in humans.
- 2. Some snakes have vestigial limbs from their evolutionary ancestors.
- 3. The flightless bird's wings are small and vestigial.
- 4. Vestigial traits can provide clues about an organism's history.