physical anthropology

noun

1. the branch of anthropology dealing with the evolutionary changes in human anatomy and physiology, using mensurational and descriptive techniques.

physical anthropology

noun

1. the branch of anthropology dealing with the genetic aspect of human development and its physical variations

physical anthropology

/ fĭz′ĭ-kəl /

1. The branch of anthropology that deals with human evolutionary biology, physical variation, and classification.
2. Compare cultural anthropology

Other Words From

• physical anthropologist noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of physical anthropology¹

First recorded in 1870–75

Example Sentences

The idea that modern humans, and particularly white humans, were the pinnacle of evolution came from a time of “colonialism and elitism,” said Janet Young, curator of physical anthropology at the Canadian Museum of History.

From Seattle Times

By then, Monge had two roles, one as associate curator in charge, overseeing the museum’s physical anthropology section, and another as an adjunct associate professor in the school’s anthropology department.

From New York Times

Despite those critiques, Morton’s approach helped lay the foundation for the burgeoning field of physical anthropology.

From Science Magazine

Morton, a successful doctor who was an active member of the Academy of Natural Sciences of Philadelphia, has sometimes been called the founder of American physical anthropology.

From New York Times

He was born in 1911, and his decision to study medicine, human genetics and physical anthropology in the 1930s was largely in tune with the scientific mood of the times.

From New York Times