documentation
UK: ˌdɒkjʊmɛnˈteɪʃən | US: ˌdɑːkjəmɛnˈteɪʃən
n. 1. The act or process of providing official written evidence or records.
n. 2. The collection of documents or information that explains or supports something.
n. 3. (Computing) Written instructions or explanations for software or hardware.
The word "documentation" stems from the Latin "documentum" (proof, lesson), derived from "docere" (to teach). The suffix "-ation" was added in Middle English to form a noun denoting the process or result of an action. Over time, "documentation" evolved to emphasize the systematic recording and organization of information, particularly in technical and administrative contexts.
Proper documentation is essential for legal compliance.
The software includes detailed documentation for developers.
She spent hours preparing the project documentation.
The museum's documentation of artifacts is meticulously maintained.
Without clear documentation, troubleshooting becomes difficult.