directory

/dɪˈɹɛktəɹi/

Proposed by a contributor, not yet supported by evidence.

Also seen as: directories

Sense 1

Meaning · English

A list of names, addresses etc, of specific classes of people or organizations, often in alphabetical order or in some classification.

Noun

Examples

look up an address in the directory

Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Sense 2

Meaning · English

A structured listing of the names and characteristics of the files on a storage device.

Noun

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Sense 3

Meaning · English

Containing directions; instructing; directorial.

Adjective

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Common questions

What does “directory” mean?

A list of names, addresses etc, of specific classes of people or organizations, often in alphabetical order or in some classification.

Is “directory” formal or informal?

No register label has been reviewed yet — treat it as neutral and check the usage notes above.