# caveman

/ˈkeɪvˌmæn/ (US) · /kˈeɪvmən/ (UK) · CEFR B1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/caveman
Updated: 2026-05-19

## Definition

a person who lived in the past and used simple tools. It is also a funny way to describe someone who is very old-fashioned or doesn't know much about modern technology.

For teachers: a member of a prehistoric human group, typically associated with the Stone Age. In modern informal contexts, it refers to a person perceived as primitive, unsophisticated, or lacking modern knowledge.

## Examples

- He acts like a real caveman when he doesn't know how to use a computer.
- The museum's new exhibit features tools used by early humans, helping visitors understand the life of a caveman.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.