binomial nomenclature

noun

: a system of nomenclature in which each species of animal or plant receives a name of two terms of which the first identifies the genus to which it belongs and the second the species itself

Examples of binomial nomenclature in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
These examples are automatically compiled from online sources to illustrate current usage. Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
Inside scientific circles, however, binomial nomenclature still rules the day, lending concision and clarity to fields ranging from molecular biology to evolutionary ecology. Kathryn Schulz, The New Yorker, 14 Aug. 2023 The tradition of identifying organisms using binomial nomenclature—the two names that identify an animal to its genus and species—dates back to the 18th century. Christie Wilcox, Discover Magazine, 1 Nov. 2017

Word History

First Known Use

1839, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of binomial nomenclature was in 1839

Dictionary Entries Near binomial nomenclature

Cite this Entry

“Binomial nomenclature.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/binomial%20nomenclature. Accessed 19 Nov. 2024.

Kids Definition

binomial nomenclature

noun
: a system of naming plants and animals in which each species is given a name consisting of two terms of which the first names the genus and the second the species itself

Medical Definition

binomial nomenclature

noun
: a system of nomenclature in which each species of animal or plant receives a name of two terms of which the first identifies the genus to which it belongs and the second the species itself

More from Merriam-Webster on binomial nomenclature

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!