Evolutionary "missing link"

APEMAN

This hypothetical early human ancestor bridges the gap between primates and modern humans in fossil records.

The term "missing link" often refers to a hypothetical transitional form between apes and humans in evolutionary theory. "Ape-man" is a colloquial name for early hominids like Australopithecus, which were believed to bridge that gap. The answer plays on the literal combination of "ape" and "man," making it a straightforward but culturally familiar shorthand. It’s a common crossword answer for clues about human evolution.