English Reference
noun

registry

n.
US /ˈɹɛdʒɪstɹi/ UK /ɹˈɛdʒɪstɹi/ reg·istry UK spelling registries

  1. 01 B2 Upper Intermediate

    a place or office where official records and lists are kept.

    a physical or digital repository where official registers are maintained for public or legal reference.

    Simple

    The couple went to the local registry to sign their marriage documents.

    In context

    The land registry provides a transparent record of property ownership, ensuring that all historical transactions are documented for legal clarity.

  2. 02 C1 Advanced Formal

    the act of putting a name or information on an official list.

    the process or act of entering information into an official register.

    Simple

    Registry of the new ship took several weeks to complete.

    In context

    The formal registry of the vessel under a foreign flag allowed the company to navigate different maritime tax regulations.

  3. 03 C1 Advanced Technical Computing

    a database that stores settings and options for a computer's operating system.

    a hierarchical database used by operating systems to store configuration settings for hardware, software, and user preferences.

    Simple

    You should be careful when changing settings in the system registry.

    In context

    The software installer modified several keys within the Windows registry to ensure the application launched correctly upon system startup.

    Usage

    Usually used with 'the' when referring to the Windows Registry.

Land Registry records show the site has been divided up and sold to several owners.

BBC News· 15 Aug 2026

However, the Guardian has examined the EPCs of more than 700 domestic properties listed as being owned by one of the three royal estates on the Land Registry.

The Guardian· 15 Aug 2026
This entry
Level C1 · Advanced
Frequency Frequent
Updated