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Indexer Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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indexer

[หˆษชndษ›ksษ™r ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

data management

An indexer is a person or a tool that creates and maintains an index, which is an organized list of items or data that allows for faster retrieval. In the context of computer science, an indexer refers to a software component that assists in indexing data to optimize search and retrieval processes. Indexers are key in databases, search engines, and other data retrieval systems, helping to categorize and streamline large volumes of information. They enhance efficiency in information navigation and searching by enabling users to locate relevant records quickly.

Synonyms

categorizer, organizer, sorter.

Examples of usage

  • The indexer improved the database retrieval times significantly.
  • Using an indexer, users can find documents much faster.
  • The search engine's indexer categorizes web pages effectively.
  • An indexer plays a crucial role in data management systems.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Technology

  • In computer science, an indexer is often a function that allows for easy access to elements in data structures, such as arrays or databases.
  • Search engines use complex algorithms with indexers to quickly retrieve web pages relevant to a user's query, effectively listing billions of results.

Library Science

  • Indexers in libraries create subject indexes that help readers locate resources related to specific topics within extensive collections.
  • The role of an indexer includes summarizing content from various sources, ensuring that the index accurately reflects the material and is easy to navigate.

Pop Culture

  • In popular media, the role of indexers is sometimes dramatized in detective stories, where they help solve mysteries by organizing clues.
  • The term 'indexer' appears in programming and tech communities, often as a playful reference to those who meticulously keep track of software versions or documentation.

Education

  • In academic research, indexers assist in the creation of bibliographies and reference lists, guiding readers to the source material.
  • Courses in information science often cover indexing techniques, highlighting the importance of organization in accessing knowledge efficiently.

Origin of 'indexer'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'indexer' comes from the root 'index,' which means a list of items arranged in order, deriving from the Latin 'index,' meaning 'one who points out.'
  • The use of 'index' in the context of data and files became popular in computing in the 1960s as systems needed efficient ways to store and retrieve information.

The term 'indexer' originates from the word 'index', which has its roots in the Latin word 'index', meaning 'indicator' or 'one who points out'. The concept of indexing dates back to antiquity when scholars and scribes sought to organize texts and information for easier reference. As information became more abundant, especially in the realms of publishing and libraries, the need for systematic organization led to the evolution of indexers. In the 20th century, with the rise of computer science and digital data storage, the term gained new meanings, particularly in software development, where 'indexers' refer to programs or algorithms that facilitate the efficient categorization of data. This evolution reflects the growing complexity of information management in both physical and digital landscapes.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #33,680 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.