释义 |
di·rec·to·ry I. \də̇ˈrekt(ə)rē, -ri also dīˈ-, rapid ˈdre-\ adjective Etymology: Middle English, from Late Latin directorius, from Latin directus (past participle of dirigere to direct) + -orius -ory — more at dress 1. : serving to direct : directive; specifically : providing guidance that is advisory and authoritative but not compulsory 2. of a law a. : directing what is to be done b. : directing how a thing shall be done rather than what shall be done — opposed to mandatory 3. usually capitalized [translation of French Directoire] : directoire II. noun (-es) 1. [Medieval Latin directorium guidebook, from neuter of Late Latin directorius] : a compilation, index, or treatise serving to direct or guide: a. : a collection of directions, rules, or ordinances b. : a book of directions for the conduct of worship; specifically usually capitalized : a Presbyterian book of rules for public worship used in the Church of Scotland and certain Presbyterian and Congregational churches elsewhere c. : ordo d. : an alphabetical or classified list containing the names and addresses of the inhabitants or organizations of a locality or the names, location, and identifying data of persons or organizations connected with a particular profession or occupation or that are subscribers of a particular service < a city directory is usually an annual or biennial publication > < a directory of manufacturers — Eastman Kodak Monthly Abstract Bulletin > < an annual directory of “who is who” among the publishers, reviewers, publications, and organizations interested in literary material — Anne J. Richter > e. : a tablet or sectional strips on the wall of the entry of a building bearing the names of occupants with indication of the floor level and room numbers of each 2. [from Directory, French executive body, translation of French Directoire — more at directoire] a. : a small governing body with executive power often unconstitutional and of a military character < the French directory of the First Republic > < to make sure that the cabinet did what it was supposed to do, they set up a directory, or shadow cabinet, behind it — Leigh White > b. : a body of directors : directorate |