living fossil

noun

1. an organism that is a living example of an otherwise extinct group and that has remained virtually unchanged in structure and function over a long period of time, as the coelacanth and the horseshoe crab.

living fossil

noun

1. an animal or plant, such as the coelacanth and ginkgo, belonging to a group most of whose members are extinct

Word History and Origins

Origin of living fossil¹

First recorded in 1920–25

Example Sentences

Understanding the true life span of these living fossils is essential for assessing the demography of the species, which, in turn, can inform conservation policy.

From Popular-Science

We have therefore, so to speak, a living fossil before us, and it would be of great interest to ascertain its history.

From Project Gutenberg

The interest excited by this living fossil was almost enough to stifle the dread of the creature in the man.

From Project Gutenberg

The two drew back as the living fossil raised a short clawed leg.

From Project Gutenberg

To the girl, it seemed that the living fossil was endless in length.

From Project Gutenberg