systematics

noun

sys·​tem·​at·​ics ËŒsi-stÉ™-ˈma-tiks How to pronounce systematics (audio)
plural in form but singular in construction
1
: the science of classification
2
a
: a system of classification
b
: the classification and study of organisms with regard to their natural relationships : taxonomy

Word History

First Known Use

1879, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of systematics was in 1879

Rhymes for systematics

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systematicness
systematics
systematic theology
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Cite this Entry

“Systematics.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/systematics. Accessed 27 Mar. 2026.

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Medical Definition

systematics

noun, plural in form but singular in construction
sys·​tem·​at·​ics ËŒsis-tÉ™-ˈmat-iks How to pronounce systematics (audio)
1
: the science of classification
2
a
: a system of classification
b
: the classification and study of organisms with regard to their natural relationships : taxonomy

More from Merriam-Webster on systematics

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Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about systematics

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