binomial

[ bahy-noh-mee-uhl ]

noun

1. Algebra. an expression that is a sum or difference of two terms, as 3 x + 2 y and x 2 − 4 x.
2. Zoology, Botany. a taxonomic name consisting of a generic and a specific term, used to designate species.

adjective

1. Algebra. consisting of or pertaining to two terms or a binomial.
2. Zoology, Botany. consisting of or characterized by binomials.

binomial

/ baɪˈnəʊmɪəl /

noun

1. a mathematical expression consisting of two terms, such as 3 x + 2 y
2. a two-part taxonomic name for an animal or plant See binomial nomenclature

adjective

1. referring to two names or terms

binomial

/ bī-nō′mē-əl /

1. A mathematical expression that is the sum of two monomials, such as 3 a + 2 b.

Derived Forms

• biˈnomially, adverb

Other Words From

• bi·nomi·al·ism noun
• bi·nomi·al·ly adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of binomial¹

1550–60; < Late Latin binōmi ( us ) having two names (compare Latin binōminis ) + -al ¹. See bi- ¹, nominal

Word History and Origins

Origin of binomial¹

C16: from Medieval Latin binōmius from bi- ¹+ Latin nōmen name

Example Sentences

They seemingly prefer water so much, “hydro” is in their Latin binomial twice: Hydrochoerus hydrochaeris.

From Salon

"There was a binomial system of nomenclature, a genus and species name that would be attached to things, but there were no rules other than that."

From Science Daily

They played key roles in scientific achievements such as Carl Linnaeus's development of binomial nomenclature and Charles Darwin's theory of evolution.

From Scientific American

Many credit taxonomist Carl Linnaeus for biology’s binomial nomenclature, but few mention the Bauhin brothers, Gaspard and Johann.

From Washington Post

Species are named according to “binomial nomenclature,” in that they are gifted a two-part name that is specific to that organism.

From Slate