numerical taxonomy

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noun

classification of organisms by a comparison of large numbers of observable characteristics that are given equal value instead of being weighted according to possible evolutionary significance.

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Also called numerical phenetics, taximetrics.

Origin of numerical taxonomy

First recorded in 1960–65

Words nearby numerical taxonomy

numerical, numerical analysis, numerical aperture, numerical control, numerical identity, numerical taxonomy, numerical weather prediction, numerology, numero uno, numerous, nu-metal

How to use numerical taxonomy in a sentence

A better taxonomy would break us up by words like Acceptance, Partial Denial, and Total Denial.
Extreme Weather? Blame the End Times|Jay Michaelson|November 28, 2014|DAILY BEAST
Taxonomy was another major area in which Aristotle influenced the history of science.
Why Aristotle Deserves A Posthumous Nobel|Nick Romeo|October 18, 2014|DAILY BEAST
A numerical data set helps physicians and other doctors know when to order scans of any kind.
Are Routine Scans Causing Cancer?|Dale Eisinger|September 17, 2014|DAILY BEAST
Shares of the youth-oriented social-media company push past an important numerical barrier.
Facebook Stock Pushes Above $40|Sarah Langs|August 23, 2013|DAILY BEAST

He has no illusions about the status of his numerical designation.
Literary Bond Superior to Movie Version|Allen Barra|November 11, 2012|DAILY BEAST
As “t” stands for 1, and o and y are vowels, and have no figure value, the numerical value of Toy must be 1.
Assimilative Memory|Marcus Dwight Larrowe (AKA Prof. A. Loisette)
Good clothes, quiet demeanour, and numerical smallness are the striking characteristics.
Our Churches and Chapels|Atticus
It was itself an appeal to the discontent of the numerical majority, not invested with a share in the government.
The Loyalists of America and Their Times, Vol. 1 of 2|Egerton Ryerson
It was the only one of Napoleon's great engagements in which he admitted his numerical superiority to his enemy.
The Life of Napoleon Bonaparte|William Milligan Sloane
Guichen was joined by a Spanish fleet which gave him a great numerical superiority.
The Political History of England - Vol. X.|William Hunt

Scientific definitions for numerical taxonomy

numerical taxonomy

[ nōō-mĕr′ĭ-kəl ]

A method of taxonomy in which classification is made on the basis of a multivariate analysis of observable differences and similarities between taxonomic groups. Classifications based on numerical taxonomy reflect degrees of similarity rather than evolutionary relationships.