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

That might mean combing through therapist directories to find out who's accepting new patients nearby or offering to watch their kids during appointments. —Angela Haupt, Time, 6 June 2025

In America, the card and the Rolodex were once part of a powerful directory of relationships. —Vibhas Ratanjee, Forbes.com, 2 June 2025

From building a directory of hairstylists to telling you all the right information about caring for your hair, having access to resources is just as important as finding the right product. —India Espy-Jones, Essence, 27 May 2025

To start, focus on these two main strategies: Submit to Local Business Directories Listing your dealership in local directories is a smart move. —Matthew Kayser, USA Today, 7 May 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