index
[ˈɪn.dɛks]feminine
The Latin word for list is index.
The term is used to refer to an enumeration or a compilation of items. Depending on the specific context of your list, other formal terms may be more appropriate: Enumeratio is used for an enumeration and Catalogus is used when referring to a well-organized, systematic list of items.
Meaning: enumeration or compilation of items (noun)
Which one should you use?
While index is the standard term for a list or index, Enumeratio specifically conveys the sense of an enumeration and Catalogus is reserved for lists that are systematic and highly organized.
How does it change in a sentence?
The word index is a feminine noun.
Did you know?
- While index refers to a list, it was also used to describe the forefinger, the finger used to point or indicate something.
- In ancient legal or social contexts, an index was not just a list of names, but a person who 'indicated' or 'pointed out' wrongdoing. This is where the English word 'indicator' or 'index' for a sign comes from.
- The word index is a relative of the Latin word iūdex, which means 'judge'. Both words are built from the root dīcō, meaning 'to say'.
Examples in context
- Enumeratio librorum meorum incipit: Primum, 'De Bello Gallico'. Secundum, 'Metamorphoses'. Tertium, 'Divina Commedia,' et cetera.I am starting the enumeration of my books: First, 'De Bello Gallico', second, 'Metamorphoses', third, 'Divina Commedia,' etc.
- Index rerum novarum est longus.The index of new things is long.
Example conversation
Julia and Marcus are organizing a library.
- JuliaMarce, ubi est index librorum?Marcus, where is the list of books?
- MarcusIndex in mensa est, Iulia.The list is on the table, Julia.
- JuliaGratias, index necessarius est.Thanks, the list is necessary.
- MarcusIta, index omnia habet.Yes, the list has everything.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “list” translations and entries index, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries index, CC BY-SA 4.0.
