neolithic
UK: ˌniːəˈlɪθɪk | US: ˌniːəˈlɪθɪk
adj. relating to the later part of the Stone Age, characterized by polished stone tools and the beginnings of agriculture.
The word "neolithic" combines Greek-derived morphemes: "neo-" (from Greek neos, meaning "new") and "-lith" (from Greek lithos, meaning "stone"). The suffix "-ic" (from Latin -icus) forms an adjective. It was coined in the 19th century to describe the "New Stone Age," contrasting with the earlier Paleolithic ("Old Stone Age"). The term reflects advancements in tool-making (polished stones) and societal shifts like farming.
Neolithic humans transitioned from hunting to farming.
Archaeologists discovered neolithic pottery at the site.
The neolithic period marked the dawn of settled communities.
Neolithic tools were more refined than paleolithic ones.
Many European megaliths date back to the neolithic era.