index

/ˈɪndɛks/
verb
  1. To create an index for a book, document, or collection of information.
    • She spent the weekend indexing her research notes.
    • The librarian indexed all the new magazines by topic.
    • They hired a professional to index the company's archives.
  2. To adjust or link something to a measure or standard, such as prices or wages.
    • The government indexed tax brackets to the cost of living.
    • Wages in the contract are indexed to the consumer price index.
    • Many pensions are indexed to inflation.
  3. To point to or indicate something.
    • Her tone indexed her frustration with the delay.
    • The survey results index a growing concern about climate change.
    • The data indexes a clear trend toward remote work.
noun
  1. An alphabetical list of names, subjects, or topics at the end of a book, showing on which pages they appear.
    • She checked the index to find the chapter on photosynthesis.
    • The index at the back of the cookbook lists every recipe by ingredient.
    • He added a detailed index to his history book to help readers.
  2. A system or list that measures changes in the value of something, such as prices, stocks, or economic activity.
    • The consumer price index rose by 2% this year.
    • The index of leading economic indicators suggests growth next quarter.
    • Investors watch the stock market index to track overall performance.
  3. A sign or indication of something.
    • The number of job applications is an index of economic confidence.
    • Her smile was an index of her happiness.
    • A high fever is often an index of infection.
  4. A pointer or indicator on a scale or device.
    • The speedometer's index showed we were going too fast.
    • He adjusted the index on the dial to the correct setting.
    • The index on the thermometer pointed to 30 degrees.
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