index

Pronunciation: in′deks, -di-sis, -di-sēz, -dek-sĕz

Definition:

1. A guide, standard, indicator, symbol, or number denoting a relationship with respect to size, capacity, or function, of one part or thing to another.
2. A core or mold used to record or maintain the relative position of a tooth or teeth to one another and/or to a cast.
3. A guide, usually made of plaster, used to reposition teeth, casts, or parts.
4. In epidemiology, a rating scale.

Synonym(s): index finger

[L. one that points out, an informer, the forefinger, an index, fr. in-dico, pp. -atus, to declare]

See Also: quotient, ratio

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