Manifest Meaning and Definition

Pronunciation

/ˈmænɪfɛst/

Part of Speech

Noun

Definition

A manifest is a list or inventory of goods or passengers carried by a ship, truck, or train; a document that details the cargo or passengers of a vessel or vehicle.

Examples

1. “The customs officer inspected the ship’s manifest before allowing it to dock.”

2. “The train’s manifest listed cargo bound for Seattle, Portland, and Los Angeles.”

Synonyms

1. Inventory

2. Bill of lading

Antonyms

1. Passenger list

2. Flight log

Additional Information

A manifest is a crucial document in logistics and transportation, as it provides detailed information about the goods or passengers being transported, including their destination, weight, and any special handling requirements.

In addition to its practical function, the concept of a manifest has also taken on metaphorical significance in popular culture, often representing a personal or artistic statement of intent or creativity.

In the context of shipping and transportation, manifests are typically generated by the carrier or shipper and are used to ensure compliance with regulations and laws governing the movement of goods and people.

Etymology

The word “manifest” comes from the Latin “manifestus,” meaning “plain” or “evident,” and has been in use in the English language since the 15th century.

Usage Notes

While the term “manifest” is most commonly associated with transportation and logistics, it can also be used in a broader sense to refer to any kind of list or inventory.

In artistic and creative contexts, a manifest may refer to a statement of intent or a declaration of one’s goals and aspirations.

Cultural References

The concept of a manifest has been referenced in popular culture, including in literature, music, and film.

Examples include the ” Communist Manifesto” by Karl Marx and Friedrich Engels, and the “Manifest Destiny” doctrine of 19th-century American expansionism.

Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases

1. “Manifest one’s intentions”: to clearly state or reveal one’s goals or purposes.

2. “On the manifest”: included on a list or inventory.

Collocations

1. Ship’s manifest

2. Truck manifest

3. Customs manifest

Frequency of Use

The word “manifest” is moderately common in formal and technical contexts, particularly in the fields of logistics and transportation.

Common Misspellings

1. Manafest

2. Manifesto

3. Manefest