What was the original name given to H. erectus and its meaning?

The original name given to H. erectus was Pithecanthropus erectus, which translates to "upright ape man." This designation reflects the characteristics of the species and its position in the evolutionary lineage. The term "Pithecanthropus" is derived from Greek words, where "pithekos" means "ape" and "anthropos" means "man."

When H. erectus was first discovered, it exhibited both ape-like and human-like features, leading researchers to classify it in a way that emphasized its transitional status between apes and modern humans. The "erectus" part of the name highlights its bipedal locomotion, a significant trait distinguishing it from some of its ancestors and contemporaries.

The other choices represent different species with their own significance, but they do not relate to the original name of H. erectus. Understanding the context of Pithecanthropus erectus helps illuminate the evolutionary history of hominins and the development of human traits.