Ape-like

Describing something that resembles an ape, either physically, in behavior, or in characteristics. This term often implies a clumsiness, a primal physicality, or a lack of sophistication. It can refer to human traits that are perceived as crude or animalistic, such as a hunched posture or a tendency towards aggressive displays. The comparison highlights shared evolutionary ancestry and can be used both literally, to describe physical features, or figuratively, to characterize behaviors and personalities perceived as primitive or unrefined.

Ape-like meaning with examples

• The creature, its hairy arms dragging on the ground, moved with an ape-like gait, a chilling reminder of our own evolutionary past. Its elongated jaw and small eyes gave it an unsettling resemblance. Despite its brutish appearance, a flicker of intelligence seemed to emanate from the beast, making its intentions unclear.
• His hunched shoulders and the way he scratched at the back of his neck gave him an ape-like posture. In a crowded room, he could feel the eyes on him and it made him even more reserved. The lack of self-confidence amplified that and made others think of a strange, awkward individual.
• The artist, inspired by the primal energy, depicted the protagonist in the painting as a towering figure, with an ape-like stance. He wanted to convey raw power, unrestrained emotion, and the underlying animalistic nature of the subject. The stark contrast between the human face and the posture reflected this primal nature.
• After the crash, the survivors, driven by primal fear, descended into ape-like behaviors: hoarding resources, fighting over scraps, and making guttural noises. Their former societal structures crumbled. The basic instincts took over, showcasing the fragility of civilization and the persistence of our animal heritage.