Basalt is a fine-grained, dark-colored igneous rock formed from the rapid cooling of low-viscosity lava rich in magnesium and iron. It is one of the most abundant rocks on Earth, covering much of the ocean floor and forming large continental lava flows. 🌍 Geological Definition Rock Type: Extrusive igneous (volcanic) rock. Composition: Primarily plagioclase feldspar,…

In lithic archaeology, basal thinning refers to the intentional removal of flakes from the base of a stone tool or projectile point to make it thinner and easier to haft. It is a hallmark of Paleoindian technology, especially in North America, and is closely associated with fluted points like Clovis. 🌍 Definition Basal Thinning: The…

In lithic archaeology, a basal notch is a deliberate indentation or cut made at the base of a stone tool or projectile point. It is a key hafting feature that helps secure the point to a shaft or handle. 🌍 Definition Basal Notch: A notch or indentation located at the base of a biface or…

Basal Metabolic Rate (BMR) is the minimum number of calories your body needs to perform essential life functions at rest, such as breathing, circulation, and maintaining body temperature. It represents about 60–70% of your daily energy expenditure. 🌍 Definition BMR: The energy (calories) your body uses at rest in a neutral environment, after fasting. Reference…

In lithic archaeology, basal grinding refers to the deliberate smoothing or polishing of the basal edge of a stone tool or projectile point. It is a diagnostic feature often associated with Paleoindian points, such as Clovis and Folsom, and provides insight into hafting technology and craftsmanship. 🌍 Definition Basal Grinding: The abrasion or polishing of…

In archaeology and lithic analysis, the basal edge refers to the bottom margin of a stone tool or projectile point, opposite the tip. It is a key diagnostic feature used to classify and interpret artifacts, especially in North American Paleoindian and Archaic contexts. 🌍 Definition Basal Edge: The lower edge of a projectile point, biface,…

In anthropology and economics, barter is the direct exchange of goods or services without the use of money. It is one of the oldest forms of trade, deeply tied to kinship, reciprocity, and social relations in small-scale societies. 🌍 Definition Barter: The exchange of goods or services of perceived equal value, without a standardized currency.…

In archaeology and anthropology, a barrow is a large mound of earth or stone built over a grave or group of graves. It is one of the most prominent forms of prehistoric funerary architecture in Europe and beyond, often serving both practical and symbolic purposes. 🌍 Definition Barrow: A burial mound, typically covering one or…

In anthropology, archaeology, and biology, barbs are sharp projections or backward-pointing extensions designed to catch, hold, or secure. The term is used across multiple domains, from weaponry and tools to zoological structures. 🌍 Definition Barb: A pointed projection, often angled backward, that prevents easy withdrawal once embedded. Etymology: From Latin barba (“beard”), referring to bristly…

In North American archaeology, a bannerstone is a carved, often polished stone artifact associated with atlatls (spear-throwers) and dating primarily to the Archaic period (ca. 6000–1000 B.C.). These objects are among the most enigmatic and aesthetically refined tools of prehistoric hunter-gatherers. 🌍 Definition Bannerstone: A symmetrically shaped, perforated stone, often made of slate, banded slate,…

Among geladas (Theropithecus gelada), a band is a higher-level social grouping composed of multiple reproductive units that share a common ranging area. It represents one tier in their complex, multilevel society. 🌍 Gelada Social Organization Geladas, primates living in the Ethiopian highlands, have one of the most intricate social systems among nonhuman primates. Their society…

In anthropology, a band is the simplest form of human social organization, typically consisting of a small, kin-based group of foragers. Bands are foundational units in the study of political and social anthropology, representing societies without formal institutions or centralized authority. 🌍 Definition Band: A small, mobile group of people (usually fewer than 100) related…