n. (pl. same) 1 a class of things having some common characteristics. 2 Biol. a category in the system of classification of living organisms consisting of similar individuals capable of exchanging genes or interbreeding. 3 a kind or sort. 4 Logic a group subordinate to a genus and containing individuals agreeing in some common attribute(s) and called by a common name. 5 Law a form or shape given to materials. 6 Eccl. the visible form of each of the elements of consecrated bread and wine in the Eucharist.
[ L, = appearance, kind, beauty, f. specere look ]