Definition

A specimen that is one of several used to represent a species or subspecies when no single specimen is chosen as the main example.

Example

The scientist examined the syntypes to better understand the species' characteristics.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of a syntype?

I think I came across that term in my biology class.

Yeah, it's interesting how it refers to specimens that aren't holotypes.

Exactly! It really shows how detailed classification can be.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Syntype → It is formed from "syn-" (meaning together) and "typos" (meaning type or model). The word refers to a type that is part of a group or collection, indicating a shared characteristic among the types.

Memory Tip

Think of types that are 'together' ('syn-') as part of a collection or model, which helps you remember that a syntype is a type that belongs to a group.

Visually Confused Words