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.
Etymology: L, = appearance, kind, beauty, f. specere look
Useful english dictionary. 2012.