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genus

Definition

A genus is a group of closely related species. The members of a genus share many similarities, such as their body shape, their way of life, and their DNA.

For example, the genus Canis includes the domestic dog, the wolf, the coyote, and the dingo. These animals are all closely related and share many similarities. They all have four legs, they all have fur, and they all have a keen sense of smell.

The name of a genus is always capitalized. For example, the genus of the domestic dog is Canis.

How can the word be used?

The genus "Homo" includes humans, chimpanzees, and bonobos.

genus

Different forms of the word

Noun: genus.

Adjective: generic.

Verb: to generalise.

Adverb: generically.

Etymology

The word "genus" comes from the Latin word "genus", which means "kind" or "race". The Latin word "genus" is derived from the Proto-Indo-European root "gen-", which means "to give birth".

Question

What is a genus?