directory

1 of 2

adjective

di·​rec·​to·​ry də-ˈrek-t(ə-)rē How to pronounce directory (audio)
dī-
: serving to direct
specifically : providing advisory but not compulsory guidance

directory

2 of 2

noun

plural directories
1
a
: a book or collection of directions, rules, or ordinances
b
: an alphabetical or classified list (as of names and addresses)
2
: a body of directors
3

Examples of directory in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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Noun
Franchise Directories And Marketplaces Franchise Direct—One of the largest franchise directories featuring global franchise opportunities. Franchise.com—Lists available franchises with investment details and industry insights. Cheryl Robinson, Forbes, 2 Mar. 2025 Tools like Crunchbase, Google, and industry-specific directories can help identify potential competitors. Abdo Riani, Forbes, 22 Feb. 2025 For parents looking to find ways for their families to support the homeless population in their communities, check out the nonprofit partner directory through the No Address movie website. Lynnette Nicholas, Parents, 22 Feb. 2025 Garcia is a physical education teacher and athletic director, according to the school’s staff directory. Grant Stringer, The Mercury News, 14 Feb. 2025 See All Example Sentences for directory

Word History

Etymology

Noun

Middle English directorie guide, from Medieval Latin directorium, from neuter of Late Latin directorius directorial, from Latin dirigere

First Known Use

Adjective

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Noun

1543, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Time Traveler
The first known use of directory was in the 15th century

Cite this Entry

“Directory.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/directory. Accessed 17 Mar. 2025.

Kids Definition

directory

noun
di·​rec·​to·​ry
də-ˈrek-t(ə-)rē,
dī-
plural directories
: an alphabetical list containing names and addresses
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