primitive

²primitive

noun

Definition of PRIMITIVE

1

a : something primitive; specifically : a primitive idea, term, or proposition b : a root word

2

a (1) : an artist of an early period of a culture or artistic movement (2) : a later imitator or follower of such an artist b (1) : a self-taught artist (2) : an artist whose work is marked by directness and naïveté c : a work of art produced by a primitive artist d : a typically rough or simple usually handmade and antique home accessory or furnishing

3

a : a member of a primitive people b : an unsophisticated person

Examples of PRIMITIVE

1. The museum is known for its collection of American primitives.

First Known Use of PRIMITIVE

15th century

Other Anthropology Terms

ectomorph, ethnography, prehistory, yurt