dichotomous key

noun

: a key for the identification of organisms based on a series of choices between alternative characters

Examples of dichotomous key in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The team created a dichotomous key (a series of yes/no questions) to help other researchers consistently identify the cause of a wound. —Melissa Cristina Márquez, Forbes.com, 11 June 2025

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1889, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for dichotomous key

• actuality
• angiography
• laryngoscopy
• ostracod
• predominately
• sensuality
• stochastically
• abc
• absentee
• addressee
• adoptee
• agouti

Kids Definition

dichotomous key

noun

: a series of pairs of phrases or descriptions which are used to classify a group of living things by making choices between the sets of traits and characters described in each pair

Medical Definition

dichotomous key

noun

: a key for the identification of organisms based on a series of choices between alternative characters