numerical taxonomy

American  

noun

1. 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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numerical taxonomy Scientific  

/ no̅o̅-mĕr′ĭ-kəl /

1. 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.

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Etymology

Origin of numerical taxonomy

First recorded in 1960–65