# indexing

/ˈɪndɛksɪŋ/ (US) · /ˈɪndɛksɪŋ/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/indexing
Updated: 2026-05-07

## Definition

the process of creating a list of names, subjects, or words to help people find information quickly. You often see this at the back of a book or in a computer database.

For teachers: the systematic arrangement of data or terms into a searchable list to facilitate efficient retrieval. Often refers to the creation of a back-of-book index or the automated cataloguing of web pages by search engines.

## Examples

- The indexing of the library's collection took several months.
- Proper indexing is essential for large websites to ensure that users can find specific articles through search engines.
- The software's automated indexing capabilities allow researchers to cross-reference thousands of legal documents in seconds, significantly reducing the time required for discovery in complex litigation.

## Usage notes

- Often used as a gerund to describe the professional or technical activity of organizing information.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.