primeval
UK: /praɪˈmiːvəl/ | US: /praɪˈmiːvəl/
adj. relating to the earliest ages of the world; ancient or primitive
adj. existing from the beginning; primordial
primeval = prim<first> + ev<age> + al<adjective suffix>
- prim (from Latin primus, meaning "first")
- ev (from Latin aevum, meaning "age" or "eternity")
- al (Latin-derived suffix forming adjectives)
Etymology Origin:
The word primeval traces back to Latin prīmaevus, combining prīmus (first) and aevum (age). It entered English in the 17th century via Medieval Latin prīmaevālis, retaining its core sense of "belonging to the earliest age." The morphemes reflect a logical progression: prim- (temporal priority) + -ev- (duration of time) + -al (qualitative descriptor). The term often evokes imagery of Earth’s primordial landscapes or mythic beginnings.
The primeval forest remained untouched by human civilization.
Scientists study primeval microbes to understand early life forms.
Legends speak of primeval gods who shaped the universe.
The cave paintings offer a glimpse into primeval human culture.
A sense of primeval fear gripped them in the dark, uncharted wilderness.