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.
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Paul Cappiello, The Courier-Journal, 2 Oct. 2020
Paul Cappiello, The Courier-Journal, 2 Oct. 2020
These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'specific epithet.' Any 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 29 Nov. 2023.
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Medical Definition
specific epithet
noun
: the Latin or latinized noun or adjective that follows the genus name in a taxonomic binomial
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