cotype: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
RareTechnical/Scientific
Quick answer
What does “cotype” mean?
In taxonomy, a specimen that serves as a duplicate of a type specimen (holotype) from the same collection event.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
In taxonomy, a specimen that serves as a duplicate of a type specimen (holotype) from the same collection event.
More broadly, in mathematics (category theory), a structure dual to a type. In general discourse, can be used metaphorically to describe a duplicate or parallel example sharing essential characteristics.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant differences in meaning or usage; term is used identically in scientific communities in both regions.
Connotations
Neutral, precise scientific term with no particular regional connotation.
Frequency
Extremely low frequency in both dialects, confined to taxonomy and related fields.
Grammar
How to Use “cotype” in a Sentence
[the/this] cotype of [species name][specimen] is a cotypeVocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “cotype” in a Sentence
adjective
British English
- The cotype specimen is held in the London museum.
- Cotype material was re-examined.
American English
- The cotype specimen is housed in the New York museum.
- Cotype specimens were compared.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Not used.
Academic
Used in biological taxonomy papers and museum catalogs to denote duplicate type specimens.
Everyday
Virtually never used.
Technical
Core usage in systematics and, in a separate sense, in advanced mathematics (category theory).
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “cotype”
- Using it as a general synonym for 'copy' or 'model'.
- Confusing it with 'prototype'.
- Assuming it is a common word.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, it is a rare technical term used almost exclusively in scientific taxonomy and advanced mathematics.
A holotype is the single specimen designated as the name-bearing type. A cotype is one of several duplicate specimens from the original collection that collectively served as types under older codes, now superseded by terms like syntype or paratype.
No, this would be incorrect and misleading. In its technical sense, it refers to a separate original specimen, not a manufactured copy. In general language, it is not used.
No, the word is only used as a noun (and occasionally as a noun adjunct in phrases like 'cotype specimen'). There is no standard verb form.
In taxonomy, a specimen that serves as a duplicate of a type specimen (holotype) from the same collection event.
Cotype is usually technical/scientific in register.
Cotype: in British English it is pronounced /ˈkəʊtaɪp/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈkoʊtaɪp/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think 'co-' (together with) + 'type' (the original specimen). A cotype exists together with the holotype as part of the same typifying series.
Conceptual Metaphor
A SHADOW OR TWIN of the original.
Practice
Quiz
In which field is the term 'cotype' primarily used?