indexical

1 of 2

adjective

in·​dex·​i·​cal (ˌ)in-ˈdek-si-kəl How to pronounce indexical (audio)
1
: of or relating to an index
2
a
: varying in reference with the individual speaker
the indexical words I, here, now
b
: associated with or identifying an individual speaker
indexical features of speech

indexical

2 of 2

noun

: an indexical word, sign, or feature

Examples of indexical in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Adjective
So these glimpses of color are both metaphors for things in life and small indexical signs of how Scully creates those illusions. Philip Kennicott, Washington Post, 27 May 2022 In both documentary and video journalism, the indexical power of cameras can be harnessed as weapons for truth and shine a light in the darkest of places. Sara Merican, Forbes, 24 Feb. 2021

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'indexical.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

Adjective

circa 1828, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Noun

1971, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of indexical was circa 1828

Dictionary Entries Near indexical

Cite this Entry

“Indexical.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/indexical. Accessed 28 Mar. 2024.

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