Definition

A type of scientific name where the genus and species names are identical, often used in the classification of animals.

Example

The scientific name for the western lowland gorilla is a tautonym: Gorilla gorilla.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of a tautonym?

No, what’s that about?

It’s when the genus and species names are the same, like Gorilla gorilla.

That’s interesting! I didn't know there was a term for that.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Tautonym is formed from "tauto-" (from Greek "tautós", meaning the same) and "-onym" (from Greek "onuma", meaning name). The word refers to a name that is the same as another name, particularly in biological classification where the genus and species names are identical.

Memory Tip

Think of 'the same' ('tauto-') when you hear 'tautonym', as it describes names that are identical.

Visually Confused Words