directory

1 of 2

adjective

di·​rec·​to·​ry də-ˈrek-t(ə-)rē 

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

: folder sense 3b

Examples of directory in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Noun

End Domestic Abuse Wisconsin has a statewide directory of resources at endabusewi.org/get-help. —Ashley Luthern, Journal Sentinel, 6 Dec. 2024

The Michigan Christmas Tree Association offers a directory of potential locations. —Jenna Prestininzi, Detroit Free Press, 2 Dec. 2024

Lawyers also have uncovered extensive evidence of directory errors. —Max Blau, ProPublica, 14 Nov. 2024

Cox was listed online in physician directories for Southern California Hospital Culver City and Monterey Park Hospital. —Emily Alpert Reyes, Los Angeles Times, 6 Nov. 2024

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

Phrases Containing directory

• directory assistance
• directory enquiries
• ex-directory
• go ex-directory
• phone directory
• sub-directory
• telephone directory

Kids Definition

directory

noun

di·​rec·​to·​ry

də-ˈrek-t(ə-)rē,

dī-

plural directories

: an alphabetical list containing names and addresses