# taxonomic

/tˌæksənˈɒmɪk/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/taxonomic
Updated: 2026-05-19

## Definition

relating to the scientific system for naming and classifying living things. You use this to describe how scientists organize different species into groups.

For teachers: relating to the science or practice of classification, especially of organisms. Often used to describe the hierarchical system used in biological nomenclature.

## Examples

- The new species is a taxonomic discovery.
- The researchers spent years on the taxonomic classification of the newly discovered insects to ensure they were not already known.
- While the initial identification was straightforward, the taxonomic placement of the specimen required a detailed comparison of its genetic markers with those of several closely related genera.

---

From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.