numerical taxonomy

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.

Origin of numerical taxonomy

First recorded in 1960–65

Also called numerical phenetics, taximetrics.

Dictionary.com Unabridged Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2018

numerical taxonomy in Science

[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.