holotype

[ hol-uh-tahyp, hoh-luh- ]

noun

, Biology.

1. the type specimen used in the original description of a species.

holotype

/ ˈhɒləˌtaɪp; ˌhɒləˈtɪpɪk /

noun

1. biology another name for type specimen

holotype

/ hŏl′ə-tīp′,hō′lə- /

1. The single specimen or illustration designated as the type for naming a species or subspecies or used as the basis for naming a species or subspecies when no type has been selected.
2. Also called type species

Derived Forms

• holotypic, adjective

Other Words From

• hol·o·typ·ic [hol-, uh, -, tip, -ik, hoh-l, uh, -], adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of holotype¹

First recorded in 1895–1900; holo- + -type

Example Sentences

Osborn says the pandemic has underlined the utility of high-fidelity digital holotypes.

From MIT Technology Review

A parallel movement to digitize existing physical holotypes is also gaining steam.

From MIT Technology Review

The illustration of the holotype suggests that it has equally prominent, but fewer, spinules (Gaige, 1926).

From Project Gutenberg

The holotype, a gravid female, is the largest known specimen (31 mm., snout-vent length).

From Project Gutenberg

We have examined the holotype of dolomedes and agree with Dunn's assignment.

From Project Gutenberg

The broken skull of the holotype is partly separated from the skin of the head and in such a manner as to reveal the teeth.

From Project Gutenberg

To my knowledge, the holotype was first specifically designated as the "(Type.)"

From Project Gutenberg