subspecific

[ suhb-spuh-sif-ik ]

adjective

1. of, relating to, or of the nature of a subspecies.
2. less than specific.

Other Words From

• subspe·cifi·cal·ly adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of subspecific¹

First recorded in 1865–70; sub- + specific

Example Sentences

The subspecific identity of the animals from east-central Colorado thus is left in doubt.

From Project Gutenberg

Duellman and Wellman (1960:25) discussed these specimens in relation to their subspecific assignment.

From Project Gutenberg

Variations of this kind are spoken of as geographic, racial, or subspecific and the birds exhibiting them are termed subspecies.

From Project Gutenberg

It follows, therefore, that in some cases ornithologists do not agree upon a bird's claim to subspecific rank.

From Project Gutenberg

The subspecific status of M. aureolum in the Kansas River Basin is to be the subject of another paper.

From Project Gutenberg