Wordsmith.Org


A.Word.A.Day

About | Media | Search | Contact  


Home

Today's Word

Yesterday's Word

Archives

FAQ


A.Word.A.Day--tautonym

Pronunciation RealAudio

tautonym (TAU-tuh-nim) noun

A scientific name in which the generic and the specific names are the same, as Chloris chloris (the greenfinch).

[Greek tautxnymos of the same name, equiv. to tauto- + -nymos named.]

"The name of the Bank Swallow becomes the tautonym Riparia riparia."
Elliott Coues; 100 years ago in the Auk: Notes on generic names of certain Swallows; The Auk; Jul 1, 1998.

This week's theme: words about words.

X-Bonus

When you want to test the depths of a stream, don't use both feet. -Chinese Proverb

We need your help

Help us continue to spread the magic of words to readers everywhere

Donate

Subscriber Services
Awards | Stats | Links | Privacy Policy
Contribute | Advertise

© 1994-2024 Wordsmith