Microliths Meaning and Definition

Pronunciation

/ˈmɪkrəˌlɪθz/ 🔊

Part of Speech

Noun

Definition

A small, usually geometrically shaped, stone tool or flake, characteristic of the Mesolithic period, used for a variety of purposes such as hunting, gathering, and craftsmanship.

Examples

• The archaeologist discovered a collection of microliths in the ancient site.
• Microliths were used by early humans for a range of tasks, from hunting to everyday life.
• The Microliths were significantly smaller and more refined than those used during the Paleolithic era.
• The discovery of microliths in the region provided valuable insights into the lives of ancient societies.
• Microliths are often associated with the Hunter-Gatherer period, when humans began to transition from a nomadic to a more settled lifestyle.
• The presence of microliths in the site suggests that the inhabitants had advanced knowledge of stone working techniques.

Synonyms

• Stone tool
• Flake
• Geometric tool

Antonyms

• Megalith
• Monolith

Etymology

The word “Microlith” comes from the Greek words “mikros”, meaning small, and “lithe”, meaning stone or flint.

Usage Notes

Microliths are often used interchangeably with the term “flint,” but it’s essential to note that microliths can refer to a broader range of stone tools, including those made from different materials and shapes.

Cultural References

Microliths have been featured in various documentaries, such as “The History Channel’s” “Ancient Civilizations” series, and in books like “The Oxford Handbook of the Archaeology of the Ancient Near East.”

Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases

None

Related Words or Phrases

Stone tool, Flake, Geometric tool, Megalith, Monolith

Collocations

Microliths are often found in the context of archaeological excavations, ancient societies, and early human history.

Frequency of Use

Microliths are not as commonly used in everyday language, but they have a significant presence in academic and professional contexts, particularly in the field of archaeology.

Common Misspellings

Mikroliths, Microlite