neotype

noun

neo·​type ˈnē-ə-ˌtīp How to pronounce neotype (audio)
: a type specimen that is selected subsequent to the description of a species to replace a preexisting type that has been lost or destroyed

Example Sentences

Recent Examples on the Web The neotype designation particularly rankles some critics because Ibrahim’s Spinosaurus, from Morocco’s Kem Kem formation, was found nearly 2,000 miles from Stromer’s Egyptian specimen. Gemma Tarlach, Discover Magazine, 15 May 2016 In their 2014 paper, however, Ibrahim’s team described their dinosaur as the neotype — essentially a new holotype — replacing Stromer’s lost dinosaur as the standard-bearer of the species. Gemma Tarlach, Discover Magazine, 15 May 2016

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'neotype.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Word History

Etymology

neo- + type entry 1, after French néotype

First Known Use

1905, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of neotype was in 1905

Dictionary Entries Near neotype

Cite this Entry

“Neotype.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/neotype. Accessed 26 Mar. 2023.

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