lectotype

noun

lec·​to·​type ˈlek-tə-ˌtīp How to pronounce lectotype (audio)
: a specimen chosen as the type of a species or subspecies if the author of the name fails to designate a type

Word History

Etymology

Greek lektos chosen (from legein to gather, choose) + English type — more at legend

First Known Use

circa 1905, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of lectotype was circa 1905

Dictionary Entries Near lectotype

lectorate

lectotype

lecture

See More Nearby Entries 

Cite this Entry

“Lectotype.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/lectotype. Accessed 22 Nov. 2024.

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