Troglodyte

A troglodyte is a person who lives in a cave or cave-like dwelling, reflecting an archaic or primitive lifestyle. Figuratively, it can describe someone who is reclusive, ignorant, or stubbornly resistant to modern ideas and progress. This usage often implies a lack of sophistication, narrow-mindedness, and a detachment from contemporary society. The term can evoke images of unsophisticated behaviours, old-fashioned beliefs and an inability to integrate within their environment, whether physical or social. A troglodyte might be seen as someone isolated by choice or circumstance, holding onto outdated values.

Troglodyte meaning with examples

• The hermit lived as a troglodyte in a remote mountain cave, surviving on foraged food and rainwater. His existence was simple, untouched by technology or societal demands. His solitary life was a testament to his rejection of modern society. He sought escape and embraced a life outside the confines of civilisation.
• Accused of being a troglodyte, the old-fashioned mayor refused to embrace new technologies and city planning proposals. He favoured traditional methods despite their ineffectiveness. His resistance to change led to delays in crucial city development and caused resentment amongst younger residents.
• Critics described the author's views on social issues as those of a troglodyte, out of touch with current societal norms. He refused to accept the progress that had been made. His beliefs and opinions isolated him and marked him as old-fashioned and backward-thinking. His work had become irrelevant.
• After the financial crash, some wealthy individuals retreated into gated communities, essentially becoming troglodytes, shielded from societal woes. They withdrew from society completely, their wealth protecting them from the economic hardship the general population suffered. This marked a retreat into self-preservation.
• Despite his PhD, his views on cultural integration were surprisingly troglodytic. He embraced archaic views and believed those to be superior to modern ones. His backward thinking and lack of tolerance caused divisions and showed ignorance and a lack of education about society.