directory (directories plural )
1 n-count A directory is a book which gives lists of facts, for example people's names, addresses, and telephone numbers, or the names and addresses of business companies, usually arranged in alphabetical order.
oft N of n, n N
...a telephone directory.
2 n-count A directory is an area of a computer disk which contains one or more files or other directories. (COMPUTING)
This option lets you create new files or directories.
3 n-count On the World Wide Web, a directory is a list of the subjects that you can find information on. (COMPUTING) Yahoo is the oldest and best-known Web directory service.
directory enquiries
Directory enquiries is a service which you can telephone to find out someone's telephone number.
(BRIT) n-uncount
He dialled directory enquiries.
in AM, use information, directory assistance
ex-directory
If a person or their telephone number is ex-directory, the number is not listed in the telephone directory, and the telephone company will not give it to people who ask for it.
(BRIT) adj
in AM, use unlisted
telephone directory (telephone directories plural )A telephone directory is the same as a telephone book. n-count