How Do You Spell SUBFAMILY?

Pronunciation: [sˈʌbfɐmˌɪli] (IPA)

The spelling of the word "subfamily" can be explained using IPA phonetic transcription. The first syllable, "sub" is pronounced /sʌb/, with the "u" being pronounced as the "u" in "sun." The second syllable, "fam" is pronounced /fæm/, with the "a" being pronounced as the "a" in "bat." The final syllable, "ily" is pronounced /ɪli/, with the "i" being pronounced as the "i" in "bit." Together, the word "subfamily" is pronounced /ˈsʌbfæmɪli/. It refers to a taxonomic category that falls below the level of family but above genus.

Meaning and Definition
Common Misspellings
Etymology
Plural
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SUBFAMILY Meaning and Definition

  1. Subfamily is a term primarily used in the field of taxonomy, specifically in the categorization and classification of living organisms. It refers to a level of classification within the biological classification hierarchy, which sits below the level of family and above the level of genus. A subfamily consists of a group of related species that share common characteristics, characteristics that are typically more specific and distinct than those shared by members of the same family.

    Within the taxonomic hierarchy, subfamily serves as a way to further breakdown and categorize groups of organisms into smaller, more closely related units. This division helps to provide a systematic and organized framework for understanding and studying the vast diversity of life on Earth.

    The designation of a subfamily level is determined by taxonomists based on several factors, including shared morphological traits, genetic relationships, and evolutionary history. The name assigned to a subfamily typically ends with the suffix "-inae". For example, the Felidae (family) includes several subfamilies such as Pantherinae (large cats) and Felinae (small cats).

    By using the concept of subfamily, taxonomists can provide a more detailed and accurate representation of the evolutionary relationships and biodiversity present within a particular family. It enables scientists and researchers to organize and compare species, facilitating the study of their evolutionary history, behavior, ecology, and other important aspects of their biology.

  2. In biological classification, an occasional division between the family and the genus, often the same as tribe.

    A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.

Common Misspellings for SUBFAMILY

Etymology of SUBFAMILY

The word "subfamily" is derived from the combination of the prefix "sub-" meaning "under" or "below" and the word "family". It was formed in the mid-19th century as a term in biological classification to describe a category within the classification system that is subordinate to a family but higher than a genus. The term is commonly used in the field of taxonomy to classify organisms and indicate their relationships within the hierarchical structure of the classification system.

Plural form of SUBFAMILY is SUBFAMILIES

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Correct spelling for subfamily
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