genus of the family Hominidae (order Primates) characterized by a relatively large cranial capacity, limb structure adapted to a habitual erect posture and a bipedal gait, well-developed and fully opposable thumb, hand capable of power and precision grips, and the ability to make standardized precision tools, using one tool to make another. Together with modern man, Homo sapiens, the genus includes the extinct species H. habilis, H. erectus, and H. heidelbergensis as well as the extinct Neanderthals (H. neanderthalensis) and the early form of H. sapiens called Cro-Magnon.
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