numerical taxonomy
noun
classification of organisms by a comparison of large numbers of observable characteristics that are given equal value instead of being weighted according to possible evolutionary significance.
Also called
numerical phenetics,
taximetrics.
Origin of numerical taxonomy
First recorded in 1960–65
Words nearby numerical taxonomy
numerical,
numerical analysis,
numerical aperture,
numerical control,
numerical identity,
numerical taxonomy,
numerical weather prediction,
numero uno,
numerology,
numerous,
numic
Scientific definitions for numerical taxonomy
numerical taxonomy
[ nōō-mĕr′ĭ-kəl ]
A method of taxonomy in which classification is made on the basis of a multivariate analysis of observable differences and similarities between taxonomic groups. Classifications based on numerical taxonomy reflect degrees of similarity rather than evolutionary relationships.