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.
Users tell the app’s AI assistant about their values, relationship goals, communication style, and lifestyle in a private conversation (not just selecting descriptors for a profile). Emma Hinchliffe, Fortune, 12 Mar. 2026 Ideas like empire and spheres of influence were not anachronisms or pejoratives but descriptors of how geopolitics functions in practice. Joshua Yaffa, New Yorker, 11 Mar. 2026 Made of 80 percent polyester and 20 percent spandex, the lightweight pants are stretchy and breathable—two descriptors that don’t often align to work trousers. Rebecca Jones, Southern Living, 4 Mar. 2026 Imai offered a different descriptor after facing the top of the Mets’ lineup — which figures to feature Semien and Bichette, at least, when the season starts — on Thursday. Matt Kawahara, Houston Chronicle, 26 Feb. 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 20 Mar. 2026.

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