Meaning & Definition of word "Primeval"

Primeval

/praɪˈmiːvəl/

adjective:

  • 1. Relating to the earliest ages in the history of the world.
    • Example: The primeval forests are a remnant of a time long before human civilization.
  • 2. Primitive; ancient; or original.
    • Example: The cave paintings gave us a glimpse into the primeval creativity of early humans.
  • 3. Basic or fundamental; relating to the origins of something.
    • Example: The primeval instincts of survival can still be observed in modern behavior.
  • 4. Characterized by a sense of primordial energy or rawness.
    • Example: The primeval landscape was both beautiful and terrifying, untouched by modern development.

Etymology

From Latin 'primaevalis', from 'primo' meaning 'first' + 'aevum' meaning 'age' or 'era'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

primeval man:

A reference to early humans or hominids existing in prehistoric times.

primeval forest:

A forest that has never been cut down or disturbed by human activity.

Related Words

primordial:

Existing at or from the beginning of time; primeval.

primal:

Relating to an early stage in evolutionary development; fundamental or basic.

Slang Meanings of primeval

Meaning: Very old-fashioned or out of date.

Example Sentence: He thinks that using a paper map is primeval.