International Code of Nomenclature

Pronunciation: /eye-see-en/

Category: Taxonomy

Singular: ICN

Plural: ICNs

Definition

International Code of Nomenclature, a set of rules and recommendations for the formal naming of organisms to ensure that each name is unique and universally understood.

Etymology

An initialism derived from the full title 'International Code of Nomenclature'.

Example

The ICN provides guidelines to correctly name and classify newly discovered insect species.

Synonyms

International Code of Botanical Nomenclature (ICBN)
International Code of Zoological Nomenclature (ICZN)

Related Terms

Taxonomy
Nomenclature
Classification

Usage Notes

The ICN is essential for maintaining consistency and avoiding confusion in the naming of organisms across different regions and languages.