descriptor

noun

de·​scrip·​tor di-ˈskrip-tər How to pronounce descriptor (audio)
: something (such as a word or characteristic feature) that serves to describe or identify
especially : a word or phrase (such as an index term) used to identify an item (such as a subject or document) in an information retrieval system

Examples of descriptor in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
On-premise, the same dynamic plays out, where cocktails are designed to be instantly legible and wine lists remain technical and often devoid of descriptors. Erica Duecy, Forbes.com, 29 Jan. 2026 By our modern terms, the closest [descriptor] would be something along the lines of pansexuality—being attracted to the way that someone thinks and feels, regardless of gender. Lea Veloso, StyleCaster, 29 Jan. 2026 Residents have long used directional descriptors and whimsical nicknames for their houses instead of addresses. Los Angeles Times, 22 Jan. 2026 This comprehensive study provides a materials-by-design playbook for turning the most abundant anion in the ocean—chloride—from a poison into a performance descriptor, paving the way for truly seawater-robust energy storage and conversion devices, according to a press release. Prabhat Ranjan Mishra, Interesting Engineering, 21 Jan. 2026 See All Example Sentences for descriptor

Word History

Etymology

see describe

First Known Use

1946, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of descriptor was in 1946

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Descriptor.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/descriptor. Accessed 4 Feb. 2026.

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