scientific name

[sahy-uhn-tif-ik naym] / ˈsaɪ ənˌtɪf ɪk ˈneɪm /

NOUN

genus and species epithet

Synonyms

WEAK

binomen binomial name binomial nomenclature scientific epithet taxonomic name trinomen trinomial name

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.

Each newly discovered species must be given a scientific name, and researchers often draw inspiration from people, experiences, or even popular culture.

From Science Daily • Mar. 25, 2026

The scientific name M. pucpuggy honors the Seminole-Creek people of Florida, whose chief gave William Bartram the name "Puc Puggy," meaning "Flower Hunter."

From Science Daily • Mar. 23, 2026

When researchers discovered a gecko that reminded them of the paintings of van Gogh, they gave it the scientific name Cnemaspis vangoghi.

From Salon • Sep. 20, 2024

The fox, which goes by the scientific name, Dusicyon avus, was of a medium size weighing 10-15 kg.

From BBC • Apr. 9, 2024

It’s not like the thing has a name tag, accompanied by a scientific name for its—his?—species.

From "Kwame Crashes the Underworld" by Craig Kofi Farmer