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

There are directories on where to visit moon trees (look for the Douglas fir in Olympia, Wash.). —Kathleen Yale, Scientific American, 25 June 2024

More information and a full directory of stores are available online at thegardensmall.com. —Ron Hurtibise, Sun Sentinel, 24 June 2024

For support outside of the US, a worldwide directory of resources and international hotlines is provided by the International Association for Suicide Prevention. —Teele Rebane, CNN, 17 June 2024

Recognizing lawyers who have proven a high level of competence and skill in their practice, as well as success in their career, The Elite Lawyer creates a diverse directory of the most outstanding lawyers in the U.S. —Chris Gallagher, USA TODAY, 14 June 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