thumb index

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Word: Thumb Index

Part of Speech: Noun

Definition: A thumb index is a feature found in some books. It consists of a series of rounded notches or tabs along the side (the fore edge) of the book. These notches help readers quickly find different sections or chapters without having to flip through every page.

Usage Instructions:

• The thumb index is usually located on the right or left edge of the book.
• It is most commonly found in reference books, textbooks, or large volumes where quick access to specific sections is beneficial.

Example Sentence:

• "When I was studying for my exams, the thumb index in my textbook made it easy to find the chapters I needed."

Advanced Usage:

• In professional settings, such as legal or academic books, a well-designed thumb index can significantly enhance the efficiency of research and information retrieval.

Word Variants:

• Thumb-Indexed (adjective): Describing a book that has a thumb index.
  • Example: "I prefer thumb-indexed dictionaries for quick look-ups."

Different Meanings:

• The term "thumb index" primarily refers to the notches in books. It does not have significant alternative meanings in other contexts.

Synonyms:

• Tab index
• Page tabs
• Book tabs

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:

• While "thumb index" does not have specific idioms or phrasal verbs associated with it, the phrase "to thumb through" means to quickly look through the pages of a book.
  • Example: "I thumbed through the magazine to find the article I wanted."

Academic

Noun

1. one of a series of rounded notches in the fore edge of a book to indicate sections