-
- To save this word, you'll need to log in.
specific epithet
noun
: the Latin or latinized noun or adjective that follows the genus name in a taxonomic binomial
Examples of specific epithet in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
The specific epithet further divided those genera into smaller groups of individuals that shared more and finer-scale characteristics.
—Paul Cappiello, The Courier-Journal, 2 Oct. 2020
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.
Word History
First Known Use
1906, in the meaning defined above
Dictionary Entries Near specific epithet
Cite this Entry
“Specific epithet.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/specific%20epithet. Accessed 14 Nov. 2024.
Medical Definition
specific epithet
noun
: the Latin or latinized noun or adjective that follows the genus name in a taxonomic binomial
Love words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share