monotypic

adjective

mono·​typ·​ic ˌmä-nə-ˈti-pik How to pronounce monotypic (audio)
: including a single representative
used especially of a genus with only one species

Examples of monotypic in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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However, a genus can also be monotypic, containing only one single, unique species such as a narwhal, ginkgo tree or platypus. Katie Hunt, CNN Money, 9 Sep. 2025

Word History

Etymology

mon- + type + -ic

First Known Use

1858, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of monotypic was in 1858

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Cite this Entry

“Monotypic.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/monotypic. Accessed 18 Sep. 2025.

Medical Definition

monotypic

adjective
mono·​typ·​ic ˌmän-ə-ˈtip-ik How to pronounce monotypic (audio)
: including a single representative
used especially of a genus with only one species
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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