Alphabetized Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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alphabetized
[ˈæl.fə.baɪ.tɪzd ]
Definition
sorted order
Alphabetized refers to the arrangement of items, usually words or names, in alphabetical order. This systematic sorting is often used in dictionaries, indexes, and lists for easy navigation. The goal is to facilitate quick access to information. Whether in print or digital formats, alphabetizing helps improve organization and clarity.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- The documents were alphabetized for easier reference.
- She kept her bookshelf alphabetized by author.
- The teacher asked the students to alphabetize their lists of vocabulary words.
- He organized his contacts in the phone book alphabetized by last name.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Education
- Alphabetizing is often one of the first skills taught in elementary school to help students learn the order of letters.
- It boosts organizational skills, making it easier for students to retrieve information from books or lists quickly.
- Teachers often use songs or rhymes to help children remember the order of the alphabet.
Technology
- Many computer programs and apps have built-in functions to alphabetize lists automatically, saving users time.
- Search engines often use alphabetized indexes to retrieve content quickly, enhancing the user experience online.
- File systems on computers can be organized alphabetically, making it simpler to manage and find documents.
Pop Culture
- Several popular games involve alphabetizing words or phrases, making learning fun and engaging.
- Albums and playlists often use alphabetical sorting to help listeners navigate large collections of songs easily.
- In television shows, characters frequently refer to alphabetizing as a humorous way to portray their obsession with order.
Linguistics
- In linguistics, alphabetization helps with understanding the structure of language by showcasing how letters form different sounds.
- Different languages have varying rules for alphabetizing due to unique characters and diacritics, making it a fascinating global topic.
- Dictionaries and thesauri use alphabetical order to systematically present words, aiding comprehension and learning.
Origin of 'alphabetized'
Main points about word origin
- The term stems from the word 'alphabet', which originates from the first two letters of the Greek alphabet: alpha and beta.
- The practice of alphabetizing dates back to ancient civilizations that needed efficient ways to catalog items.
- The verb 'alphabetize' was first recorded in the English language in the 18th century as a method for organizing texts.
The word 'alphabetized' originates from the word 'alphabet,' which itself comes from the first two letters of the Greek alphabet: alpha and beta. The practice of alphabetizing dates back to ancient civilizations when lists of names, terms, or items needed to be organized for efficient retrieval of information. In English, the term began to see usage in the early 20th century, corresponding with the rise of bureaucracy and organizational methods in libraries and educational institutions. The act of alphabetization became essential for cataloging resources and ensuring streamlined access in various contexts, from libraries to databases. Today, the process is standard in many fields as a means of enhancing order and accessibility.