item

Part of Speech

Noun

Pronunciation

/ˈaɪtəm/

Definitions

• A distinct individual article or unit, often part of a larger collection.
• An object or thing that is specifically listed or cataloged.
• A piece of information or a particular detail in a larger set of data.
• A subject or topic, especially in a discussion or list.

Usage Examples

• She checked off each item on the list as she completed it.
• The store sells a variety of electronic items, including phones and laptops.
• Each item in the inventory must be accounted for at the end of the day.
• In the meeting, one of the items discussed was the upcoming project timeline.

Etymology

From Latin "item," meaning "in the same manner" or "likewise," which later came to mean "a thing" or "an article." It entered English in the 14th century, initially used to denote a subject or point in a list or series. Over time, the meaning expanded to include any distinct thing or object.

Synonyms

• Article
• Object
• Thing
• Piece
• Entry
• Detail

Antonyms

• Whole
• Entirety
• Collection
• Group
• Mass

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

• In British English, "item" is often pronounced with a clear "t" sound, while in American English, the "t" may be softened to sound like a "d."
• In Australian English, the pronunciation may also exhibit a more relaxed "t" sound, similar to British English.
• In Indian English, the pronunciation might be slightly closer to the American version, with a soft "t" sound.

Historical Usage

The term "item" has been used in English since the late 14th century, originally in reference to individual points or subjects within a list. Its use expanded over time to include any distinct article or object, especially in cataloging and inventory contexts. The meaning of "item" as a unit or thing within a larger whole has been stable over the centuries, making it one of the most commonly used words in everyday language.

Cultural Nuances

In many cultures, the act of listing items is an essential organizational tool. Whether in formal business settings, shopping lists, or daily routines, "items" help simplify tasks and provide structure. The word is prevalent across multiple fields, from retail to academia, and serves as a key concept in both professional and casual contexts. In some cultures, the importance of keeping detailed lists reflects values of organization, clarity, and efficiency.

More Information

Itemization is a core aspect of human organization. Whether it's cataloging items in a store, outlining a list of tasks, or simply remembering a series of things to do, breaking down information into items has a universal appeal. The word "item" is also critical in legal and business environments, where precise categorization and listing are crucial for clarity and accountability. As technology has advanced, the process of creating, managing, and processing lists has become easier, with various tools and software available to support itemization.