dichotomous key

noun

: a key for the identification of organisms based on a series of choices between alternative characters

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1889, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

dichotomous key

noun

: a series of pairs of phrases or descriptions which are used to classify a group of living things by making choices between the sets of traits and characters described in each pair

Medical Definition

dichotomous key

noun

: a key for the identification of organisms based on a series of choices between alternative characters