Like trichotomy (meaning “division into three parts”), this sense denotes separation into different elements, but it adds the connotation of oppositeness. The newer sense of dichotomy denotes a …

DICHOTOMOUS definition: 1. involving two completely opposing ideas or things: 2. involving two completely opposing ideas…. Learn more.

In botany, branching may be dichotomous or axillary. In dichotomous branching, the branches form as a result of an equal division of a terminal bud (i.e., a bud formed at the apex of a stem) into two equal …

Define dichotomous. dichotomous synonyms, dichotomous pronunciation, dichotomous translation, English dictionary definition of dichotomous. adj. 1. Divided or dividing into two parts or classifications.

DICHOTOMOUS definition: divided or dividing into two parts | Meaning, pronunciation, translations and examples

If something's dichotomous, it's divided into two distinct parts. It can describe a plant whose leaves pair off in opposing buds or anything — a government, a relationship — that has two divisions that are …

Dec 11, 2025 · Adjective dichotomous (not comparable) Dividing or branching into two mutually exclusive pieces.

DICHOTOMOUS definition: divided or dividing into two parts. See examples of dichotomous used in a sentence.

There are three meanings listed in OED's entry for the adjective dichotomous, one of which is labelled obsolete. See ‘Meaning & use’ for definitions, usage, and quotation evidence.

Dichotomous refers to something divided or dividing into two parts, classifications, or groups that are mutually exclusive, distinctly different or directly opposed.