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Definitions

specimen

[spes-uh-muhn] / ˈspɛs ə mən /
NOUN
example, sample
Synonyms
STRONGEST
copy exhibit variety
STRONG
case embodiment exemplar exemplification illustration individual instance model part pattern proof representation representative sampling sort species type unit
WEAK
case history cross section
Antonyms
STRONG
whole

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

"And our specimen is also a juvenile or 'baby', so it's perfect for our dinosaur species name to honor Dooly."

From Science Daily • Apr. 1, 2026

Each specimen showed wing feathers that were white with a distinct black spot at the tip.

From Science Daily • Mar. 18, 2026

A robotic sample changer handled the insects during the process, rotating each specimen and replacing it with the next one every 30 seconds.

From Science Daily • Mar. 10, 2026

Researchers initially compared the specimen to the Terrestrisuchus, another early member of the crocodylomorpha group - also known for its long legs and fully terrestrial lifestyle.

From BBC • Feb. 17, 2026

Brother Leon studied him, looking at him as if he were a specimen under a microscope, as if the specimen contained the germ of some deadly disease.

From "The Chocolate War" by Robert Cormier

From Roget's 21st Century Thesaurus, Third Edition Copyright © 2013 by the Philip Lief Group.