Word: Index

Pronunciation

/ˈɪndɛks/

Definitions

• Noun:

  • A list of items systematically arranged, typically in alphabetical or numerical order, such as the index of a book which lists the subjects or names with references to where they can be found in the text. Example: “The index of this novel includes all the characters and key events.”
  • In mathematics and computing, it refers to a numerical value or label that identifies a position within a sequence, array, or table. Example: “In Python, you can access an element in a list using its index.”
  • In finance, an index represents a statistical measure of change in a securities market or economy, often calculated from a weighted average of prices or values. Example: “The Dow Jones Industrial Average is a stock market index.”

• Verb:

  • To provide an index for something; to compile and arrange in an orderly manner for reference. Example: “The author indexed her previous works to make them more accessible to researchers.”
  • To serve as an indicator or gauge. Example: “Interest rates often index inflation levels.”

Phrases

• “Index finger” refers to the first finger on your hand, next to the thumb.
• “Indexed annuity” is an investment product whose returns are linked to a specific market index.
• “Indexed search” is when a search engine uses an index to quickly find relevant information.

Example Sentences

• Noun: “The index in the back of the cookbook will help you locate recipes easily.”
• Verb: “The indexer meticulously indexed every chapter and footnote for easy reference.”

Synonyms

• Table of contents (noun)
• Pointer (noun, in some contexts)
• Indicator (noun, in certain contexts)
• Catalog (noun)
• Reference (noun)
• List (noun)
• Guide (noun)
• Compile (verb)
• Categorize (verb)