- Today's Word
Vestigial
Vestigial
veh-STIJ-ee-uhl
Definition
(adjective) Remaining as a small or incomplete part of something that was once much larger or more developed.
Example
The cave fish have vestigial eyes that no longer function in complete darkness.
Word Origin
Late 18th century: from Latin vestigium meaning “footprint” or “trace.”
Fun Fact
Vestigial is often used in biology to describe body parts that have lost their original function—like the human appendix, tailbone, or wisdom teeth. But the word also works metaphorically: a vestigial tradition might survive long after its meaning has faded. It’s a favorite in evolutionary science, architecture, and even fashion—where tiny flourishes hint at functions once essential, now mostly symbolic.