Primates

/ˈpraɪmeɪts/ noun

Definition

The group of mammals that includes humans, apes, monkeys, and lemurs, characterized by forward-facing eyes and grasping hands.

Etymology

From Latin 'primates' meaning 'the first' or 'of first rank,' from 'primus' meaning 'first.' The term emphasizes these animals' evolutionary position at the 'top' of mammalian development.

Kelly Says

Humans are primates, which means we're not separate from animals—we're deeply related to monkeys and apes through millions of years of shared evolution, and our DNA proves it!

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