What does neolithic mean?

Pronunciation

/ˌne.əˈlɪθ.ɪk/ 🔊

Part of Speech

Noun

Definition

A term used to describe the final division of the Stone Age, characterized by the development of agriculture, the domestication of animals, and the emergence of settled communities.

Examples

• The Neolithic period saw the rise of complex societies.
• The discovery of neolithic tools shed light on the early history of the region.

Synonyms

• Stone Age
• New Stone Age

Antonyms

• Paleolithic
• Mesolithic

Additional Information

The Neolithic period marks a significant turning point in human history, as it saw the transition from nomadic, hunter-gatherer societies to settled, agricultural communities. This period also saw the development of more complex social hierarchies, as well as the emergence of early forms of writing and art.

In different regions, the Neolithic period had distinct characteristics, such as the development of megalithic architecture in Europe and the rise of dynastic kingdoms in Mesopotamia. Despite these regional variations, the Neolithic period was marked by a shared emphasis on agriculture, settlement, and the development of more complex societies.

Etymology

The term “Neolithic” was coined by Sir John Lubbock in 1865, derived from the Greek words “neos,” meaning “new,” and “lithos,” meaning “stone.”

Usage Notes

The term “Neolithic” is often used to describe the cultural and technological developments of this period, as well as the social and economic transformations that occurred during this time.

Cultural References

The Neolithic period has been referenced in popular culture, such as in the works of authors like Jean M. Auel, who have explored the lives and societies of early humans during this period.

Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases

• From the Stone Age to the Neolithic Age

Related Words or Phrases

• Mesolithic
• Paleolithic
• Bronze Age

Collocations

• Neolithic agriculture
• Neolithic community
• Neolithic period

Frequency of Use

The term “Neolithic” is moderately frequent in modern language, often used in academic and historical contexts.

Common Misspellings

• Neolitic
• Neolithtic
• Neolithicc