Descriptor Meaning and Definition

Pronunciation

/ˈdɛskrɪptər/ 🔊

Part of Speech

Noun

Definition

A term used to describe or label something, often in a formal or technical context, such as a data descriptor or a metadata descriptor.

Etymology

The word “descriptor” comes from the Latin “describere”, meaning “to write or describe”, and has been used in various forms of writing and documentation from the 14th century.

Usage Notes

In everyday language, descriptors are often used to provide more detail or context to a description, such as describing a person’s physical appearance or a place’s atmosphere.

Cultural References

In popular culture, descriptors are occasionally referenced in films, books, and music, often to emphasize the importance of language or communication.

Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases

• “In a nutshell” – a brief and concise description
• “To the point” – a clear and direct description

Related Words or Phrases

• Attribute
• Label
• Description

Collocations

• “Descriptor label”
• “Metadata descriptor”
• “Technical descriptor”

Frequency of Use

The word “descriptor” is commonly used in technical and formal contexts, but its frequency of use is not as high as other words in everyday language.

Common Misspellings

• Deskriptor
• Descritor

Additional Information

Descriptors are used in various fields, including computer science, biology, and social sciences, to provide a standardized way of describing data or concepts. Effective use of descriptors can improve communication and accuracy in these fields.

Descriptors can also be used in creative writing, such as in character descriptions or setting the tone for a story.