Yerkish

[ yur-kish ]

noun

1. an experimental language for communicating with apes, using symbols consisting of geometric shapes.

Word History and Origins

Origin of Yerkish¹

1970–75; Yerk(es) (Regional Primate Research Center, at Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia) + -ish ¹

Example Sentences

Under the tutelage of the center's scientists, Lana is rapidly learning how to read and write in a brand-new language called Yerkish.

From Time Magazine Archive

On each of the variously colored keys is a different geometric form; the forms are the words�or "lexigrams," as the scientists call them�of Yerkish.

From Time Magazine Archive

By punching out these symbols, or lexigrams, as they are called, on a computer-monitored console, which displayed them on an overhead screen, Lana became skilled enough in Yerkish to say things like "Please machine give Lana juice."

From Time Magazine Archive

Like Lana, Sherman and Austin first had to be introduced to Yerkish.

From Time Magazine Archive

A chimp with a degree in Yerkish or Ameslan exhibits the ability to form concepts from his store of word symbols.

From Time Magazine Archive