catalog
A complete, systematically organized list of items; or, the act of creating such an organized list.
As a noun, it is the database of library holdings. As a verb, it is the highly skilled task of assigning metadata, subject headings, and call numbers to new items.
Word relationships
- index: An index is an alphabetical list of topics with page references, usually at the back of a book, while a catalog is a complete list of independent items in a collection.
- register: A register is an official list of names, events, or transactions, whereas a catalog is designed to help users find and identify specific items.
- disorganize: Disorganize means to throw into confusion or disorder, which is the exact opposite of cataloging.
Commonly confused with
- category: A category is a class or division of people or things, while a catalog is the actual list of those things.
Word family
- cataloger (noun): A person whose job is to catalog books or other items.
- cataloging (noun): The action or process of creating a catalog.
Collocations
- online catalog
- card catalog
- catalog books
Example sentences
- "If you cannot find the book on the shelves, please check the online catalog to see if it has been checked out." Instructions for finding library materials.
Memory hook
Think of a 'cat' sitting 'log'-like on a computer, looking at a perfectly organized list of books. A catalog is a complete, organized log.
When not to use
Do not use catalog for a simple, unorganized shopping list or a random pile of items; a catalog must be systematically arranged.
Fun facts
- Before computers, libraries used physical 'card catalogs'—wooden cabinets with thousands of small paper cards filed alphabetically by author and title.
Explore more words
enumeration, inventory, codify, collection, formulate, analytical
Also appears in
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