Indexing

Part of Speech

Verb (present participle of 'index')

Pronunciation

/ˈɪn.dɛk.sɪŋ/

Definitions

1. The act of arranging or listing items systematically, especially for easy reference.

2. The process of creating an index, such as in books, databases, or websites, to improve the retrieval of information.

3. (Economics) The practice of adjusting wages, pensions, or other financial elements based on an index, such as inflation.

Usage Examples

1. "The librarian spent the afternoon indexing the new collection of books."

2. "Indexing the data allowed users to search more efficiently through the database."

3. "The company started indexing salaries to account for inflation."

Etymology

The word 'indexing' comes from the Latin word 'index,' meaning 'a list or pointer,' combined with the verb suffix '-ing,' indicating an ongoing action. The term has evolved from its use in library sciences to include its application in various fields like economics and computing.

Synonyms

Categorizing, listing, cataloging, organizing, sorting, referencing

Antonyms

Disorganizing, misarranging, neglecting, ignoring

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

The pronunciation of 'indexing' is generally consistent across most languages, but in some regions, speakers may place varying emphasis on the first or second syllables, particularly in non-native English speakers.

Historical Usage

Indexing has evolved significantly, especially with the growth of information technology. Initially used in the context of library cataloging, the term now extends to database management, the internet, and financial systems where data or prices are indexed.

Cultural Nuances

The concept of indexing is universal, but the methods and importance of indexing differ across cultures. For instance, in the West, indexing plays a major role in academic and library sciences, while in other parts of the world, indexing may be more focused on economic terms such as wage indexing.

More Information

Indexing is a fundamental concept in organizing and retrieving information. Its applications span from physical index cards used in libraries to complex algorithms in computer science. In economics, indexing refers to the adjustment of wages, pensions, or prices in accordance with changes in the inflation rate. Understanding indexing is crucial for efficient information retrieval and for understanding how data is organized in various fields.