noun
directory
dih-REHK-tuh-ree
noun
1
A list of names, addresses, or other information, usually organized alphabetically or by category.
"She looked up the plumber's number in the business directory."
2
A location on a computer where files are organized and stored.
"Save the report in the shared directory."
How to Use Directory
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishAn organized list of information, or a folder used to organize computer files.
Common mistake
In everyday computer use, "directory" and "folder" mean essentially the same thing — "folder" is the more common term outside technical contexts.
Easily confused with
Common pairings
phone directory
business directory
root directory
Word Forms
more directory comparative, directories plural, most directory superlative
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She looked up the plumber's number in the business _____.
Etymology
From Medieval Latin dīrēctōrium, related to "direct."