Binomial

Pronunciation

• IPA: /baɪˈnoÊŠmiÉ™l/

Origin

Formed from the Late Latin binōmi(us) + the English -al (suffix forming adjectives). Compare binomy and binominal, as well as the French binôme.

Adjective

adjective

1. Consisting of two terms, or parts.

Full definition of binomial

Noun

1. (algebra) A polynomial with two terms.
2. (algebra) A quantity expressed as the sum or difference of two terms.
3. (biology, taxonomy) A scientific name at the rank of species, with two terms: a generic name and a specific name.

Usage notes

Some people deprecate use of binomial and advocate use only of binominal in taxonomy. See species name for typesetting usage and example.

Synonyms

• (biology, taxonomy) binomen, binomial name, binominal, binominal name, species name

Derived terms

• binomial coefficient
• binomial distribution
• binomial nomenclature
• binomial theorem

Anagrams

• Mobilian