noun
Common
documentation
dok-yuu-mehn-TAY-shuhn
Documentation (noun) means Written material that explains, records, or proves something, such as instructions for software or supporting paperwork. Example: “Check the documentation before asking for help with the installation.”
noun
1
Written material that explains, records, or proves something, such as instructions for software or supporting paperwork.
"Check the documentation before asking for help with the installation."
"The software's documentation explains every feature in detail."
"You'll need documentation to prove your date of arrival."
How to use documentation
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishSupporting written material — instructions, records, or proof — that explains or backs something up.
Common pairings
technical documentation
supporting documentation
lack of documentation
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Word forms
- Plural
- documentations
Fill the gap
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Check the _____ before asking for help with the installation.
Etymology
From document + -ation.
Synonyms
View more →Related words
Rhymes for documentation
region
ablation
allusion
emulsion
ideation
novation
diffusion
elocution
extension
oxidation
perfusion
selection
See all rhymes for documentation →
Frequently asked questions
What does “documentation” mean?
The word “documentation” means written material that explains, records, or proves something, such as instructions for software or supporting paperwork. In plain terms, supporting written material — instructions, records, or proof — that explains or backs something up.
How do you pronounce “documentation”?
“Documentation” is pronounced dok-yuu-mehn-TAY-shuhn (/ˌdɑkjəmɛnˈteɪʃən/ in IPA).
How do you use “documentation” in a sentence?
Here is “documentation” used in a sentence: “The software's documentation explains every feature in detail.”
What part of speech is “documentation”?
“Documentation” is a noun.
Is “documentation” a common word?
“Documentation” is a fairly common word in modern English.
What is the difference between documentation and a document?
A document is a single piece of written or printed material, while documentation is the broader body of written material that explains, records, or proves something. Documentation usually refers to a whole set of documents, such as a product's instructions or a project's supporting paperwork.
When should you use documentation instead of records?
Documentation emphasizes material that explains or instructs, such as software manuals and technical guides, while records emphasize material kept as an official account of events. Choose documentation when the purpose is to describe how something works or to provide supporting evidence.
Is documentation countable or uncountable?
Documentation is normally an uncountable (mass) noun, so it takes a singular verb and is not usually made plural, as in "the documentation is complete." To count separate items, refer to individual documents or pieces of documentation rather than "documentations."
What are common collocations with documentation?
Documentation frequently appears in phrases such as technical documentation, supporting documentation, user documentation, and software documentation. In everyday and official contexts it is also used in phrases like "provide documentation" and "required documentation."
