index Meaning, Definition & Usage

noun a numerical scale used to compare variables with one another or with some reference number
noun a number or ratio (a value on a scale of measurement) derived from a series of observed facts; can reveal relative changes as a function of time
index number; indicator; indicant.
noun a mathematical notation indicating the number of times a quantity is multiplied by itself
exponent; power.
noun an alphabetical listing of names and topics along with page numbers where they are discussed
noun the finger next to the thumb
index finger; forefinger.
verb list in an index
verb provide with an index
- index the book
verb adjust through indexation
- The government indexes wages and prices

L.: cf. F. index. See Indicate, Diction.

plural E Indexes L Indices ()

That which points out; that which shows, indicates, manifests, or discloses.
Tastes are the indexes of the different qualities of plants. Arbuthnot.
That which guides, points out, informs, or directs; a pointer or a hand that directs to anything, as the hand of a watch, a movable finger on a gauge, scale, or other graduated instrument. In printing, a sign [*] used to direct particular attention to a note or paragraph; -- called also fist. here represented by "✍"
A table for facilitating reference to topics, names, and the like, in a book; -- usually alphabetical in arrangement, and printed at the end of the volume.
A prologue indicating what follows. Obs. Shak.
(Anat.) The second digit, that next pollex, in the manus, or hand; the forefinger; index finger.
(Math.) The figure or letter which shows the power or root of a quantity; the exponent. In this sense the plural is always indices.

imperfect & past participle Indexed ; present participle & verbal noun Indexing

To provide with an index or table of references; to put into an index; as, to index a book, or its contents.