homos a very offensive word for a homosexual. Genus of the family Hominidae of primates characterized by a relatively large cranium (braincase), limb structure adapted to an erect posture and a two-footed gait, well-developed and fully opposable thumb, hand capable of power and precision grips, and the ability to make precision tools. The genus includes modern humans (Homo sapiens), the extinct species H. habilis and H. erectus, and the extinct forms of H. sapiens called Neanderthal and Cro-Magnon. Homo erectus Homo habilis Homo sapiens