Subfamily - Meaning, Definition & English Examples
Definition:
A taxonomic category ranking below a family and above a genus in biological classification.
Synonyms:
subgroup, subdivision, branch, clan
Part of Speech:
noun
Antonyms:
superfamily, family
Common Collocations:
taxonomic subfamily, plant subfamily, animal subfamily, scientific classification, biological hierarchy
Derivatives:
subfamilial, subfamilies
Usage Tips:
Use "subfamily" when referring to a specific rank in biological taxonomy between family and genus.
Common Phrases:
N/A (no common phrases or idioms for this technical term)
Etymology:
Derived from Latin "sub-" (below) + "familia" (family), first used in taxonomic contexts in the 19th century.
Examples:
- 1. The subfamily Felinae includes smaller cats like domestic cats and cheetahs.
- 2. Botanists classified the new species under the Rosoideae subfamily.
- 3. The subfamily level helps scientists organize related genera more precisely.
- 4. This insect belongs to a subfamily known for its unique wing patterns.