1. extinct human species that lived in Europe and parts of Asia from about 400,000 to 40,000 years ago
Usage: anthropology; paleontology
2. people regarded as primitive, backward, or brutish in behavior or thinking
Usage: informal; often derogatory

Examples

• Scientists discovered Neanderthal fossils in a cave in France.
• Neanderthals used stone tools and controlled fire.
• DNA evidence shows that modern humans interbred with Neanderthals.
• The museum exhibit featured reconstructions of Neanderthal daily life.
• He called his opponents Neanderthals for rejecting new technology.
• The politician’s outdated views made him seem like a Neanderthal to younger voters.