numerical taxonomy

noun

: taxonomy in which many quantitatively measured characters are given equal weight in the determination of taxa and the construction of diagrams indicating systematic relationships
numerical taxonomic adjective
numerical taxonomist noun

Examples of numerical taxonomy 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.
Some of the earliest criticisms were from this school of taxonomy that was called numerical taxonomy, or phenetics. Janna Levin, Quanta Magazine, 24 Oct. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1961, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of numerical taxonomy was in 1961

Dictionary Entries Near numerical taxonomy

Cite this Entry

“Numerical taxonomy.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/numerical%20taxonomy. Accessed 15 Nov. 2024.

More from Merriam-Webster on numerical taxonomy

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

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