Species

/ˈspiːʃiːz/

Meaning & Definition

noun
A group of living organisms consisting of similar individuals capable of exchanging genes or interbreeding.
The bald eagle is a species that is native to North America.
A group of plants or animals with common characteristics that distinguish them from other groups.
The scientist discovered a new species of insect in the rainforest.
Biological classification of organisms.
In biology, species is one of the basic units of classification.
A particular kind of something.
There are many species of trees in this forest.
A category of items that share a set of characteristics.
This company specializes in two species of flooring options.

Etymology

From Latin 'species' meaning 'appearance, form, kind'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

endangered species
A species at risk of extinction.
invasive species
An organism that is not native to a specific location and that, when introduced, causes harm.
species at risk
A species that is vulnerable to extinction.

Related Words

genus
A rank in the biological classification system that is one level above species.
biodiversity
The variety of life in the world or in a particular habitat or ecosystem.
taxonomy
The science of classification of organisms.

Slang Meanings

Specimens of organisms that could be considered for gaming or collecting.
I caught a few rare species for my collection.
Types or kinds of people in social contexts.
He's one of the rare species that enjoys reading books.