Magdalenian

adjective

Mag·​da·​le·​ni·​an ˌmag-də-ˈlē-nē-ən How to pronounce Magdalenian (audio)
: of or relating to an Upper Paleolithic culture characterized by flint, bone, and ivory implements, carving, and paintings

Examples of Magdalenian in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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Researchers studied remains of 10 individuals from the Magdalenian culture who lived in Europe between 11,000 and 17,000 years ago. Ashley Strickland, CNN, 15 Feb. 2025 But based on recent archeological research, at least some Magdalenian groups also engaged in a gorier pastime: cannibalism. Andrew Paul, Popular Science, 13 Feb. 2025 New Insights of Cultural Cannibalism Amongst Magdalenian Groups at Maszycka Cave, Poland. Sam Walters, Discover Magazine, 12 Feb. 2025 In prehistoric Europe, the Magdalenian culture was known for its toolmaking and artistry, left behind on cave walls and rocky outcrops. Irene Wright, Miami Herald, 7 Feb. 2025 Zig-zag engravings on arm bones different from those from butchery tools and presence of human skull caps suggests Magdalenian culture used cannibalism to honor the dead and maintain a connection in the afterlife. Avya Chaudhary, Discover Magazine, 3 June 2024 Dating also placed the site during the Magdalenian culture that had thrived in France and Spain between about 11,000 years and 17,000 years ago. Matt Hrodey, Discover Magazine, 9 Oct. 2023

Word History

Etymology

French magdalénien, from La Madeleine, rock shelter in southwest France

First Known Use

1885, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of Magdalenian was in 1885

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Cite this Entry

“Magdalenian.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/Magdalenian. Accessed 8 Mar. 2025.

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