Definition

Noun: A chordate family is any taxonomic family of animals belonging to the phylum Chordata. This phylum includes all animals that possess, at some stage of their life, a notochord, a dorsal hollow nerve cord, pharyngeal slits, and a post-anal tail.

Usage

The term is used in scientific classification (taxonomy) to group related genera within the Chordata phylum. It is a formal, biological term.

Examples

• The chordate family Hominidae includes humans, gorillas, and chimpanzees.
• Biologists are studying the evolutionary history of a newly discovered chordate family.
• Dolphins belong to the chordate family Delphinidae.

Advanced Usage

• In cladistics, the definition of a chordate family is based on shared derived characteristics (synapomorphies).
• The classification of a chordate family can be revised as new genetic evidence emerges.

Variants and Related Words

• Chordate (noun/adjective): An animal of the phylum Chordata; relating to such animals.
  • The shark is a chordate animal.
• Phylum Chordata: The major taxonomic group containing all chordate families.

Synonyms

• Taxonomic family within Chordata (This is a highly specific scientific term with no perfect common-language synonym).

Notes on Meaning

This term has a single, precise meaning in zoological taxonomy. It does not refer to a human social family unit. The word "family" here is used in its strict biological classification sense, ranking below order and above genus.

Noun

1. any family in the phylum Chordata