Directory — Meaning, Definition & Synonyms

adjective noun /də-ˈrek-t(ə-)rē/ di·rec·to·ry

Meaning & Definition of Directory

Directory (adjective)

  1. serving to direct; specifically, providing advisory but not compulsory guidance

Directory (noun)

  1. a book or collection of directions, rules, or ordinances
  2. an alphabetical or classified list (as of names and addresses)
  3. a body of directors

Directory (noun) — Senses, Synonyms & Antonyms

  1. a book that contains mandates and instructions for actions or conduct

    similar: code, constitution, decalogue, bylaw, ground rule, reg, regulation, rule, act, law, ordinance, statute, behest, charge, command, commandment, decree, dictate, direction, directive, edict, fiat, instruction, order, axiom, fundamental, maxim, precept, moral, principle, value, ban, interdiction, prohibition, proscription, restriction, convention, custom, habit, manners, mores, practice, tradition, way, blueprint, canon, formula, guide, guideline, standard

Synonyms, Thesaurus & Another Word for Directory

The most common words with a similar meaning to Directory:

code, constitution, decalogue, bylaw, ground rule, reg, regulation, rule, act, law, ordinance, statute, behest, charge, command, commandment, decree, dictate, direction, directive, edict, fiat, instruction, order, axiom, fundamental, maxim, precept, moral, principle, value, ban, interdiction, prohibition, proscription, restriction, convention, custom, habit, manners

Word Forms of Directory

Inflections: directories

Origin & Etymology of Directory

Middle English directorie guide, from Medieval Latin directorium, from neuter of Late Latin directorius directorial, from Latin dirigere

First known use: 15th century

Vocabulary Lists & Topics for Directory

Words & Phrases Containing Directory

directory assistance, directory enquiries, ex-directory, telephone directory, go ex-directory, phone directory, subdirectory

Frequently Asked Questions about Directory

What does "Directory" mean?

"Directory" means serving to direct; specifically, providing advisory but not compulsory guidance. As an an adjective and a noun, it is defined as: serving to direct; specifically, providing advisory but not compulsory guidance.

What is another word for "Directory"?

Other words for "Directory" include code, constitution, decalogue, bylaw, ground rule, reg, regulation and rule. The best synonym depends on which meaning of "Directory" you intend.

What are different ways to say "Directory"?

There are 50 words and phrases with a similar meaning to "Directory". Common alternatives include code, constitution, decalogue, bylaw, ground rule, reg, regulation, rule, act and law.

Is "Directory" a noun, verb, or adjective?

"Directory" can be used as an adjective and a noun, depending on the context.

Is "Directory" useful for IELTS, TOEFL, and other English exams?

As a C1-level word, "Directory" is typical of Cambridge C1 Advanced (CAE), IELTS band 7.0–8.0, TOEFL iBT 95–113, PTE Academic 76–84, TOEIC Listening & Reading 945+. Advanced words like this are also useful for the GRE, SAT, GMAT, and LSAT.

How do you pronounce "Directory"?

"Directory" is pronounced /də-ˈrek-t(ə-)rē/ and divided into syllables as di·rec·to·ry.

What is the origin of the word "Directory"?

"Directory" comes from Middle English directorie guide, from Medieval Latin directorium, from neuter of Late Latin directorius directorial, from Latin dirigere. First known use: 15th century.

What is another word for "Directory" meaning "a book that contains mandates and instructions for actions or conduct"?

When "Directory" (noun) means a book that contains mandates and instructions for actions or conduct, synonyms include code, constitution, decalogue, bylaw, ground rule and reg.