index

in|dex¹ W3 [ˈındeks] n

[Date: 1500-1600; : Latin; Origin: 'first finger, guide', from indicare; INDICATE]

1.) plural indexes

an alphabetical list of names, subjects etc at the back of a book, with the numbers of the pages where they can be found

2.) plural indexes

a set of cards or a ↑database containing information, usually arranged in alphabetical order and used especially in a library

3.) plural indices [ˈındısi:z]

a standard by which the level of something can be judged or measured

index of

▪ The changing size of an infant's head is considered an index of brain growth.

4.) plural indices [ˈındısi:z] or indexes

technical a system by which prices, costs etc can be compared to those of a previous date

index ²

index² v [T] [usually passive]

1.) if documents, information etc are indexed, an index is made for them

▪ The reports are indexed by subject and location.

2.) to arrange for the level of wages, ↑pensions etc to increase or decrease according to the level of prices

index to BrE

▪ demands that wages be indexed to the rise in prices

index for AmE

▪ an amount indexed for inflation

>indexation [ˌındekˈseıʃən] n [U and C]