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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
One of the most important features of taxonomy is binomial nomenclature.
—The Editors, JSTOR Daily, 12 Dec. 2024
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
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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 20 Dec. 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
Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about binomial nomenclature
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