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