descriptor

noun

de·​scrip·​tor di-ˈskrip-tər How to pronounce descriptor (audio)
: something (such as a word or characteristic feature) that serves to describe or identify
especially : a word or phrase (such as an index term) used to identify an item (such as a subject or document) in an information retrieval system

Examples of descriptor in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The wine list is centered on natural, low-intervention wines and includes helpful descriptors that inspire diners to try something new. Lisa Cericola, Southern Living, 17 June 2025 The tone should be helpful, knowledgeable, and customer-focused: [COPY AND PASTE EMAIL] And on and on Jane goes, dispatching one email challenge after another by varying her prompts, accounting for shifts in content and supplying descriptors for her preferred tone. Clint Boulton, Forbes.com, 3 June 2025 However, the entire concept of climate havens might be more of a clever marketing tool than a trustworthy descriptor of specific cities. Ryleigh Nucilli, Outside Online, 2 June 2025 Appropriately, the Twilight Saga (the franchise’s official descriptor) began with a dream. Bruce Handy, Vulture, 20 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for descriptor

Word History

Etymology

see describe

First Known Use

1946, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of descriptor was in 1946

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Descriptor.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/descriptor. Accessed 28 Jun. 2025.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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