species
UK: ˈspiːʃiːz | US: ˈspiːʃiːz
n. a group of living organisms consisting of similar individuals capable of exchanging genes or interbreeding
n. a kind, sort, or category of something
species = spec<look> + ies<noun suffix>
- spec (from Latin specere, meaning "to look" or "observe")
- ies (a Latin-derived noun suffix indicating plural or collective form)
Etymology Origin:
The word species originates from Latin species, meaning "appearance, form, or kind," derived from specere ("to look"). It originally referred to visual classification—how things appear or are grouped based on observable traits. Over time, its meaning narrowed in biology to denote groups of organisms sharing genetic and reproductive traits. The suffix -ies preserves the Latin plural form, reflecting its scholarly adoption into English.
The Amazon rainforest is home to thousands of plant and animal species.
This chemical reaction produces a new species of molecule.
The endangered species list includes the giant panda.
Darwin studied the evolution of species in the Galápagos.
The museum exhibit showcases fossilized species from the Jurassic period.