directory

1 of 2

adjective

di·​rec·​to·​ry də-ˈrek-t(ə-)rē 

dī-

: serving to direct

specifically : providing advisory but not compulsory guidance

directory

2 of 2

noun

plural directories

1

a

: a book or collection of directions, rules, or ordinances

b

: an alphabetical or classified list (as of names and addresses)

2

: a body of directors

3

: folder sense 3b

Examples of directory in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Noun

List your practice on reputable directories like Healthgrades and Yelp to improve your online presence and search rankings. —Lauren Parr, Forbes.com, 8 May 2025

Their website also offers a directory of dermatologists with experience treating eczema. —Alexandria Nyembwe, Health, 8 May 2025

The project had generated considerable heat and even landed on the 2023 Black List, the annual directory of most popular unproduced screenplays. —Borys Kit, HollywoodReporter, 28 Apr. 2025

Axios confirmed that a David Geier is listed in the HHS employee directory, although HHS declined to comment. —Caitlin Owens, Axios, 28 Mar. 2025

Word History

Etymology

Noun

Middle English directorie guide, from Medieval Latin directorium, from neuter of Late Latin directorius directorial, from Latin dirigere

First Known Use

Adjective

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Noun

1543, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Phrases Containing directory

• directory assistance
• directory enquiries
• ex-directory
• go ex-directory
• phone directory
• sub-directory
• telephone directory

Rhymes for directory

• refectory
• trajectory
• nectary
• rectory
• subdirectory

Kids Definition

directory

noun

di·​rec·​to·​ry

də-ˈrek-t(ə-)rē,

dī-

plural directories

: an alphabetical list containing names and addresses