atavistic

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Donald Trump, touting an atavistic “America first” nationalism, also overcompensated for Bush’s overreach, conducting foreign policy by instinct, impulse and a dearth of strategic thought.

From Los Angeles Times

Indeed, I was hesitant to move during the experience for atavistic fear of disrupting the trance.

From New York Times

But it wasn’t easy to overcome the atavistic tug toward his former ways.

From National Geographic

This week wasn’t just an atrocity, it was a glimpse into an atavistic nativism that always threatens to grip the American soul.

From Seattle Times

The setup unleashes the gang’s atavistic tendencies, anguished confessions and speculation on Mr. Peterson’s motives, along with geysers of blood that even spritz the lens.

From New York Times