index card

A student writes notes on an index card at the library.

Definition

1. Noun:
   • A small, rectangular piece of stiff paper: An "index card" is a thin, rigid piece of paper, typically measuring 3 by 5 inches (or similar dimensions), used for recording brief notes, data, or information in a systematic way, often for cataloging, studying, or referencing purposes.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • She wrote each vocabulary word on a separate index card for easier memorization. (A small card used for organizing study notes.)
  • The librarian filed the book's details on an index card in the catalog drawer. (A card used for record-keeping in a library system.)

Advanced Usage

• "Index card system": a method of organizing information using individual cards, often arranged alphabetically or by topic.

  • He created an index card system to track his research sources. (A structured filing method using cards.)

• "On an index card": used to describe something written or recorded on such a card.

  • The recipe was jotted down on an index card for quick reference. (A note written on a small card.)

Variants and Related Words

• Index (n): a list of items, such as names or topics, arranged in order, often at the back of a book.

  • The index at the back of the textbook helped me find the chapter on photosynthesis. (A reference list.)

• Card (n): a piece of thick, stiff paper or thin cardboard, used for various purposes like writing or playing games.

  • He used a piece of card to make a sign. (A stiff paper material.)

Synonyms

• Note card: a small card used for writing notes.

  • She prepared note cards for her speech. (Similar to an index card, but often less formal.)

• Flashcard: a card with information on one or both sides, used for learning or memorization.

  • He used flashcards to study Spanish vocabulary. (A card designed for quick learning, often a type of index card.)

Related Idioms

• "Index-card memory": an informal phrase meaning a very precise or systematic memory, as if one could recall details like entries on index cards.

  • He has an index-card memory for historical dates. (He remembers facts with great accuracy and order.)

• "File away on index cards": to organize information meticulously.

  • She filed away her research notes on index cards for future use. (She stored information in a structured, accessible way.)