Biological Anthropology

Bipedalism

The condition of walking on two feet, a defining characteristic of humans.

Sexual Dimorphism

Distinct differences in size or appearance between sexes of an animal.

Foramen Magnum

A large hole in the base of the skull that allows the spinal cord to connect to the brain.

Neandertals

Extinct members of the human lineage known for their robust physique and large brain size.

Hominins

Refers to extinct and living members of the human lineage.

Cultural Genocide

Intentionally trying to kill off a culture that is still alive.

Sapir-Whorf Hypothesis

The idea that people experience the world based on the structure of their language.

Mutual Intelligibility

The ability of speakers of different but related languages to understand each other.

Paleoanthropology

The study of ancient hominins to learn about their evolution and behavior.

Holotype

A type specimen, or the first specimen upon which a species is described.

Anatomical Adaptations for Bipedalism

Changes such as an S-shaped spine, a broad pelvis, and a specific femur angle that support upright walking.

Neandertal Technology

Middle Paleolithic stone tool technology used by Neandertals, including various tools like scrapers and hand axes.

Endangered Language

A language spoken by few people, not learned by future generations, and likely to become extinct.

Australopithecus

Early hominins that lived 4.2 to 1.9 million years ago with smaller brains and a height of about 3'7" to 4'11".

Homo habilis

An early human species known as the 'handy person,' associated with the use of stone tools.

Fossil Record

The history of life as documented by fossils, showing the evolution of species over time.

Neandertal Diet

Primarily meat-based, making up about 90% of their diet.

Language Hotspots

Regions with the highest levels of linguistic diversity.