plural specimens
1
a
: something (such as an animal or plant) collected as an example of a particular kind of thing
a museum specimen
b
: a small amount or piece of something that can be tested or examined
a urine/blood specimen [=sample]
2
a
: a notable example of something
The church is a magnificent specimen of baroque architecture.
b
humorous
: an example of a type of person
Her dance partner is a superb physical specimen.
fine specimens of manhood
Cite this Entry
“Specimen.” Merriam-Webster.com Simple Definition, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/simple/specimen. Accessed 14 Apr. 2026.
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