Dewey decimal classification

noun

Dew·​ey decimal classification ˈdü-ē- How to pronounce Dewey decimal classification (audio)
 also  ˈdyü-
: a system of classifying books and other publications whereby main classes are designated by a 3-digit number and subdivisions are shown by numbers after a decimal point

called also Dewey decimal system

Word History

Etymology

Melvil Dewey

First Known Use

1924, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of Dewey decimal classification was in 1924

Dictionary Entries Near Dewey decimal classification

Cite this Entry

“Dewey decimal classification.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/Dewey%20decimal%20classification. Accessed 19 Mar. 2024.

Kids Definition

Dewey decimal classification

noun
Dew·​ey decimal classification ˌd(y)ü-ē- How to pronounce Dewey decimal classification (audio)
: a system of library classification in which publications are assigned a number from 0 to 999 according to subject

called also Dewey decimal system

Etymology

named for Melvil Dewey 1851–1931 American librarian

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