labels
|la-bel|
/ˈleɪbəl/
(label)
tag or descriptor
Etymology
'label' originates from Late Latin, specifically the word 'labellum', where 'labellum' was a diminutive of 'labrum' meaning 'lip'.
'label' changed from Old French 'label' (a strip of cloth or ribbon) and entered Middle English as 'label', eventually becoming the modern English word 'label'.
Initially, it meant 'a small strip of cloth or ribbon' used as a mark or tag, but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'a tag or identifying name attached to an object or used to categorize'.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
a small piece of paper, cloth, metal, or other material attached to an object to identify it or provide information about it.
The labels on the boxes indicate their contents and destination.
Synonyms
Noun 2
a descriptive name or phrase used to categorize or describe a person, group, or thing (often suggesting a social or ideological category).
Political labels can oversimplify complex issues; the labels people use shape public debate.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Verb 1
third-person singular present of 'label': to attach a label to something; to mark or categorize.
She labels each sample before sending it to the lab.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Verb 2
third-person singular present of 'label': to describe or call someone or something (often unfairly) by a particular term.
The media often labels new movements in ways that simplify their goals.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Last updated: 2025/11/25 07:54