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.
The Swiss cheese descriptor is derived from the fenestrations or window-like perforations in its foliage. Joshua Siskin, Oc Register, 27 May 2026 The name stands for capabilities descriptor of widespread destruction via mass attack (Havoc) and precision targeting from afar (Spear). Abhishek Bhardwaj, Interesting Engineering, 22 May 2026 One way to listen to your inner navigation system is to use warmer and cooler descriptors for certain decisions. Alexa Mikhail, Flow Space, 22 May 2026 What could possibly fit all those descriptors? Mary Catherine McAnnally Scott, Southern Living, 12 May 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 31 May. 2026.

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