Crenelation (also spelled crenellation) is an architectural term referring to the pattern of alternating raised portions (merlons) and gaps (crenels or embrasures) along the top of defensive walls, battlements, or towers. It is one of the most recognizable features of medieval fortifications. 🌍 Definition Crenelation: The notched parapet at the top of a wall, consisting…

Cremation is the practice of disposing of the dead by burning the body, reducing it to ash and bone fragments. It is one of the most widespread mortuary practices globally, with deep cultural, religious, and symbolic meanings. 🌍 Definition Cremation: The burning of a human body until soft tissues are destroyed, leaving skeletal remains and…

Creation science (or scientific creationism) is a pseudoscientific movement that attempts to use scientific-sounding arguments to support a literal interpretation of the biblical creation narrative, usually rejecting evolution and deep geological time. It is distinct from theistic evolution, which accepts evolutionary theory as compatible with religious belief. 🌍 Definition Creation Science: A form of Young…

Cranial deformation (also called cranial modification or artificial cranial deformation) is a cultural practice in which the shape of the human skull is intentionally altered during infancy, when the bones are still soft and malleable. It is one of the most striking examples of how human societies have used the body as a canvas for…

Cranial capacity is a measure used in anthropology, archaeology, and evolutionary biology to estimate the volume of the braincase (cranium), usually expressed in cubic centimeters (cc). It is a key metric for studying human evolution and comparing hominin species. 🌍 Definition Cranial Capacity: The internal volume of the skull that houses the brain. Units: Measured…

Cotype is a term used in taxonomy and classification (especially in botany, zoology, and paleontology) to describe a type specimen designation. It has a specific historical meaning in scientific nomenclature, though its usage has shifted over time. 🌍 Definition Cotype (Taxonomy): Originally referred to any of the specimens cited in the original description of a…

Corvée is a term used in economic history, anthropology, and archaeology to describe a system of unpaid, forced labor imposed by states or ruling authorities on their subjects, often as a form of taxation or civic duty. Instead of paying money, people contributed labor for public works, military service, or elite households. 🌍 Definition Corvée:…

A cortical spall is a term from lithic technology and archaeology referring to a flake or fragment struck from the cortex (outer weathered surface) of a stone core during tool-making. It is an important byproduct in the study of stone tool production, as it helps archaeologists reconstruct reduction sequences and raw material use. 🌍 Definition…

Corporateness is an anthropological and sociological concept that refers to the quality of a social group acting as a single, enduring entity with collective rights, responsibilities, and identity. It is most often discussed in kinship studies, lineage systems, and organizational theory. 🌍 Definition Corporateness: The property of a group (often kin-based) functioning as a corporate…

Corporate ownership and control is a concept in economics, business, and anthropology that describes how rights to property, resources, or enterprises are collectively held and managed by a corporate body rather than individuals. It emphasizes the distinction between who owns assets and who controls their use or management. 🌍 Definition Corporate Ownership: Assets (land, enterprises,…

A corporate kin group is a key concept in anthropology and kinship studies, referring to a social group organized around kinship ties that collectively owns, manages, or controls resources, rights, and responsibilities. Unlike temporary or loosely defined kin associations, corporate kin groups are enduring, structured, and often central to social, economic, and political life. 🌍…

A corner-notched point (or corner-notched tool) is a distinctive type of projectile point in lithic technology, defined by notches placed at the basal corners of the artifact. These notches create barbs and a stem, allowing the point to be securely hafted to a shaft or handle. 🌍 Definition Corner-Notched Point: A stone projectile point with…