index
[ in-deks ]
/ ˈɪn dɛks /
noun, plural in·dex·es, in·di·ces [in-duh-seez] /ˈɪn dəˌsiz/.
(in a nonfiction book, monograph, etc.) a more or less detailed alphabetical listing of names, places, and topics along with the numbers of the pages on which they are mentioned or discussed, usually included in or constituting the back matter.
a sequential arrangement of material, especially in alphabetical or numerical order.
something used or serving to point out; a sign, token, or indication: a true index of his character.
something that directs attention to some fact, condition, etc.; a guiding principle.
a pointer or indicator in a scientific instrument.
a piece of wood, metal, or the like, serving as a pointer or indicator.
Computers.
- a value that identifies and is used to locate a particular element within a data array or table.
- a reference table that contains the keys or references needed to address data items.
Also called fist, hand. Printing.
a sign in the shape of a hand with extended index finger, used to point out a particular note, paragraph, etc.
a light, smooth cardboard stock.
the forefinger.
a number or formula expressing some property, ratio, etc., of something indicated: index of growth; index of intelligence.
Statistics.
index number.
Economics.
price index.
Algebra.
- an exponent.
- the integer n in a radical
defining the n-th root: ∛ is a radical having index three. - a subscript or superscript indicating the position of an object in a series of similar objects, as the subscripts 1, 2, and 3 in the series x1, x2, x3.
- winding number.
Horology.
a leverlike regulator for a hairspring.
(initial capital letter) Roman Catholic Church.
(usually initial capital letter)
any list of forbidden or otherwise restricted material deemed morally or politically harmful by authorities: an Index of disapproved books relating to Communism.
Optics.
index of refraction.
Obsolete.
- a table of contents.
- a preface or prologue.
verb (used with object)
Origin of index
OTHER WORDS FROM index
WORDS THAT MAY BE CONFUSED WITH index
appendix index supplement (see synonym study at appendix)Words nearby index
Example sentences from the Web for index
British Dictionary definitions for index
index
/ (ˈɪndɛks) /
noun plural -dexes or -dices (-dɪˌsiːz)
verb (tr)
Derived forms of index
indexer, noun indexless, adjectiveWord Origin for index
C16: from Latin: pointer, hence forefinger, title, index, from
indicāre to disclose, show; see
indicate
Medical definitions for index
index
[ ĭn′dĕks′ ]
n. pl. in•dex•es
A guide, standard, indicator, symbol, or number indicating the relation of one part or thing to another in respect to size, capacity, or function.
A core or mold used to record or maintain the relative position of a tooth or teeth to one another or to a cast.
A guide, usually made of plaster, used to reposition teeth, casts, or parts.
The index finger.
Other words from index
in′dex′ v.Cultural definitions for index
index
An alphabetical list of subjects treated in a book. It usually appears at the end of the book and identifies page numbers on which information about each subject appears.