index
IHN-dehks
Index (noun) means an alphabetical list at the back of a book showing where topics can be found. Example: “I checked the index to find the page on tax deductions.”
noun
1
An alphabetical list at the back of a book showing where topics can be found.
"I checked the index to find the page on tax deductions."
"Look up the recipe in the index at the back of the book."
"The index lists every place mentioned in the travel guide."
2
A number used to track or measure changes in something, such as prices or performance.
"The stock market index fell three percent today."
"The cost of living index rose slightly over the last quarter."
"Analysts watch the consumer confidence index to see how shoppers are feeling."
3
A sign or measure that indicates something.
"Unemployment is often used as an index of economic health."
"A firm handshake is often seen as an index of confidence."
"Rising sales were an index of how popular the new shop had become."
verb
1
To create an index for, or to list systematically.
"The librarian spent weeks indexing the archive."
"Volunteers are indexing the old newspapers so people can search them easily."
"She spent the weekend indexing her thesis before handing it in."
2
To adjust a value in line with another measure, especially to account for inflation.
"Pensions are indexed to inflation each year."
"The government indexes the minimum wage to the rise in living costs."
"Their rent is indexed to inflation, so it goes up every year."
How to use index
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA list, number, or sign used to locate or measure something.
Common pairings
stock market index
index of prices
indexed to inflation
index finger
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Word forms
- Plural
- indexes, indices, index's
- Third person singular
- indexes
- Past tense
- indexed
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
I checked the _____ to find the page on tax deductions.
Etymology
From Latin index, "forefinger, indicator, sign," from indicare, "to point out" — the same root as indicate.
Synonyms
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Frequently asked questions
What does “index” mean?
The word “index” means an alphabetical list at the back of a book showing where topics can be found. In plain terms, a list, number, or sign used to locate or measure something.
How do you pronounce “index”?
“Index” is pronounced IHN-dehks (/ˈɪndɛks/ in IPA).
How do you use “index” in a sentence?
Here is “index” used in a sentence: “I checked the index to find the page on tax deductions.”
What part of speech is “index”?
Depending on how it is used, “index” can be a noun and a verb.
Where does the word “index” come from?
The word “index” comes from Latin. From Latin index, "forefinger, indicator, sign," from indicare, "to point out" — the same root as indicate.
Is “index” a common word?
“Index” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.
How many meanings does “index” have?
“Index” has 5 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: an alphabetical list at the back of a book showing where topics can be found.
What is the difference between an index and a table of contents?
A table of contents sits at the front and lists chapters and sections in the order they appear. An index sits at the back and lists topics, names, and terms alphabetically, with page numbers. The contents guide you through the structure; the index helps you find specifics.
What is the difference between an index and a glossary?
An index is an alphabetical list of topics with the pages where they appear, helping you locate information. A glossary is an alphabetical list of terms with their definitions, helping you understand them. One points to where a subject is discussed; the other explains what a word means.
Is the plural of index "indexes" or "indices"?
Both are correct. "Indexes" is the usual plural for the back-of-book listing sense described here. "Indices" — the Latin plural — is preferred in mathematics, science, and economics, as in stock market indices. When talking about books, "indexes" is the safer and more natural choice.
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