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
These examples are automatically compiled from online sources to illustrate current usage. Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
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

Dictionary Entries Near Magdalenian

Cite this Entry

“Magdalenian.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/Magdalenian. Accessed 14 Nov. 2024.

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