missing link

noun

1
: an absent member needed to complete a series or resolve a problem
2
a
: a hypothetical intermediate evolutionary form between humans and their presumed simian progenitors
b
: a hypothetical intermediate evolutionary form between one animal species or group and its presumed ancestors
a missing link between reptiles and birds

Examples of missing link in a Sentence

Police are hopeful that the new evidence will provide the missing links needed to solve the crime. scientists searching for the missing link
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The Royals could use an offensive spark from their outfielders, and former MLB executive Jim Bowden suggests Jorge Soler to be the missing link. Hunter Mulholland, MSNBC Newsweek, 7 May 2025 This study identified a missing link in this rich and complex history of language. Stephanie Edwards, Discover Magazine, 5 Feb. 2025 But there’s one missing link Intuit Dome is a sleek, joyous piece of modern architecture with much to love, just like its neighbor, SoFi Stadium. Los Angeles Times, 21 Oct. 2024 For leaders, creatives and decision-makers, mindful movement may be the missing link between chronic depletion and sustainable excellence. Ximena Araya-Fischel, Forbes.com, 19 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for missing link

Word History

First Known Use

1851, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of missing link was in 1851

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Cite this Entry

“Missing link.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/missing%20link. Accessed 20 May. 2025.

Kids Definition

missing link

noun
: a form of animal believed to have existed that shares characteristics with one animal group and the ancestors from which the group is thought to have evolved but has not been discovered in the fossil record
find the missing link between humans and apes

More from Merriam-Webster on missing link

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