vestigian

/vɛstɪˈdʒiəl/

Definitions

1. adjective

relating to or being a part or organ that is no longer of practical use but has been retained because it was useful in the past

“The vestigial tail of the whale is a remnant of its land-dwelling ancestors.”

2. noun

a part or organ that has lost its original function or significance

“The vestigial limbs of the mole are not visible because they are buried under its skin.”

Synonyms

  • atrophied
  • rudimentary

Antonyms

  • developed
  • functional