Definition

A major category in biological classification that groups together organisms with similar characteristics, ranking above class and below kingdom.

Example

In biology, animals are classified into different phyla based on their shared features.

Conversation

Did you know that jellyfish belong to a different phylum than most other animals?

Really? I had no idea they were so unique.

Yeah, it's fascinating how diverse the animal phylum can be.

I agree! It makes you appreciate nature even more.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Phylum → It is derived from the Greek word "phylon" (φῦλον), meaning tribe or race. In biological classification, a phylum represents a group of related organisms that share a common ancestry, akin to a tribe in a social context.

Memory Tip

Think of 'phylum' as a way to group living things that are like a 'tribe' — they share common traits and ancestry.

Visually Confused Words