Definition of nomen dubium
: a taxonomic name that cannot be assigned with certainty to any taxonomic group because the description is insufficient for identification and the original specimens no longer exist
Keep scrolling for more
Test Your Vocabulary
Who Knew?
-
- What is a ruelle?

Test your vocabulary with our 10-question quiz!
TAKE THE QUIZ
A daily challenge for crossword fanatics.
TAKE THE QUIZLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Words at Play
Ask the Editors
Share nomen dubium
Time Traveler for nomen dubium
The first known use of nomen dubium was in 1915
See more words from the same year