Primitive Meaning and Definition

Pronunciation

/prɪˈmɪtɪv/ 🔊

Part of Speech

Noun, Adjective

Definition

Relating to or characteristic of an early stage of development; simple, unsophisticated, or unrefined.

Examples

• The primitive tools used by ancient civilizations were made of stone and wood.
• The artist’s primitive style was reminiscent of early 20th-century avant-garde.

Synonyms

• Simple
• Crude
• Basic

Antonyms

• Sophisticated
• Complex
• Advanced

Additional Information

The concept of primitive has evolved over time, with early anthropologists using it to describe supposedly “uncivilized” societies. Today, the term is often used to describe early stages of development, simplicity, or lack of refinement. In art, the term primitive can refer to a style that is simple, naive, or untrained. In a broader sense, primitive can describe anything that is basic, fundamental, or unevolved.

In biology, the term primitive is used to describe ancestral or early forms of organisms, which may possess characteristics that are common to multiple species. In technology, primitive can refer to early or basic versions of a device or system.

Etymology

The word “primitive” originates from the Latin “primitivus,” meaning “of or belonging to the first time or period.”

Usage Notes

The term primitive can be subjective and context-dependent, and its meaning may vary depending on the field or discipline being referred to. It’s essential to consider the connotations and implications of using this term to describe a particular phenomenon or group.

Cultural References

• The term “primitive” has been used in literature, such as in William Golding’s novel “Lord of the Flies,” to describe the descent into savagery of a group of young boys.
• In art, the term “primitive” has been used to describe the work of artists such as Henri Rousseau, who was known for his naive and simple style.

Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases

• “Get back to basics” – to return to a simpler or more fundamental way of doing something.
• “Primitive instincts” – basic or natural instincts that are not influenced by culture or civilization.

Related Words or Phrases

• Simple
• Basic
• Unrefined
• Crude

Collocations

• Primitive tools
• Primitive art
• Primitive society

Frequency of Use

The word “primitive” is moderately common in modern language, with a frequency of around 0.05% in written English.

• Primitave
• Primitiv
• Primative