missing link

noun

1
: an absent member needed to complete a series or resolve a problem
2
a
: a hypothetical intermediate evolutionary form between humans and their presumed simian progenitors
b
: a hypothetical intermediate evolutionary form between one animal species or group and its presumed ancestors
a missing link between reptiles and birds

Examples of missing link in a Sentence

Police are hopeful that the new evidence will provide the missing links needed to solve the crime. scientists searching for the missing link
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Its origin is a missing link in scientists' understanding of our planet's hydrological history. Jamie Carter, Forbes, 8 Dec. 2024 His anguish and affection become the missing link between the cold hard facts of the cosmos and humanity’s survival. Bilge Ebiri, Vulture, 6 Dec. 2024 From my view leading a company that provides automation solutions for the food industry, the missing link is a clear connection between the use of data and the ways to make incisive business decisions. Massimo Bizzi, Forbes, 6 Dec. 2024 Editor’s note: This story was updated to add a missing link in the final paragraph. Amelia Soth, JSTOR Daily, 2 Dec. 2024 See all Example Sentences for missing link 

Word History

First Known Use

1851, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of missing link was in 1851

Dictionary Entries Near missing link

Cite this Entry

“Missing link.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/missing%20link. Accessed 26 Dec. 2024.

Kids Definition

missing link

noun
: a form of animal believed to have existed that shares characteristics with one animal group and the ancestors from which the group is thought to have evolved but has not been discovered in the fossil record
find the missing link between humans and apes

More from Merriam-Webster on missing link

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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