taxonomist
UK: tækˈsɒnəmɪst | US: tækˈsɑːnəmɪst
n. a scientist who specializes in the classification of organisms into groups based on shared characteristics.
taxonomist = taxo<arrangement> + nom<name> + ist<agent suffix>
- taxo (from Greek taxis, meaning "arrangement" or "order")
- nom (from Greek nomos, meaning "law" or "name")
- ist (suffix denoting a person who practices or specializes in something)
Etymology Origin:
The word taxonomist originates from the fusion of Greek roots taxis (arrangement) and nomos (law/name), reflecting the systematic naming and ordering of organisms. The suffix -ist was later added to indicate a practitioner of this science. The term emerged in the early 19th century alongside the development of modern biological classification systems, particularly influenced by Carl Linnaeus' work.
The taxonomist identified a new species of orchid in the Amazon rainforest.
As a taxonomist, her work involves categorizing insects based on their genetic traits.
The museum hired a taxonomist to reorganize its fossil collection.
Modern taxonomists often use DNA sequencing to refine classification systems.
His reputation as a skilled taxonomist earned him a position at the national botanical institute.