missing link

noun

1
: an absent member needed to complete a series or resolve a problem
evidence that was the missing link to solve the crime
2
a
: a hypothetical intermediate evolutionary form between humans and their presumed simian progenitors
b
: a hypothetical intermediate evolutionary form between one animal species or group and its presumed ancestors
a missing link between reptiles and birds

Examples of missing link in a Sentence

Police are hopeful that the new evidence will provide the missing links needed to solve the crime. scientists searching for the missing link
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The fossil examination done by researchers from the Nanjing Institute of Geology and Paleontology (NIGPAS) and the University of Cambridge presents the missing link in insect evolution. — Mrigakshi Dixit, Interesting Engineering, 31 Aug. 2026 Staten provided the missing link between his father and Yancy, who told the Double K rancher about the plan to trick his father. — Dessi Gomez, Deadline, 23 July 2026 That leaves limited instruments for managing the risk that one missing link derails an entire corridor. — Bright Simons, semafor.com, 13 July 2026 The missing link in most AI strategies isn’t more compute. — David Noy, Forbes.com, 25 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for missing link

Word History

First Known Use

1851, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of missing link was in 1851

Rhymes for missing link

See All Rhymes for missing link

Browse Nearby Words

missing in action
missing link
missing movement
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Cite this Entry

“Missing link.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/missing%20link. Accessed 4 Sep. 2026.

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Kids Definition

missing link

noun
: a form of animal believed to have existed that shares characteristics with one animal group and the ancestors from which the group is thought to have evolved but has not been discovered in the fossil record
find the missing link between humans and apes

More from Merriam-Webster on missing link

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about missing link

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