glossary

UK: ˈɡlɒsəri | US: ˈɡlɑːsəri

Definition
  1. n. a list of terms with definitions, often found at the end of a book or document

  2. n. a collection of specialized words or explanations related to a particular subject

Structure
gloss <word/explanation>ary <collection>
Etymology

The word "glossary" traces back to the Greek "glōssa," meaning "tongue" or "language," which evolved into Latin as "glōssa" to refer to obscure words requiring clarification. The suffix "-ary" (from Latin "-arium") was added to signify a collection, forming "glossarium" in Medieval Latin—a list of such explanations. Over time, this became "glossary" in English, retaining its core meaning of a curated list of terms and definitions.

Examples
  1. The textbook includes a glossary to help students understand technical terms.

  2. She compiled a glossary of medical terms for her research paper.

  3. The app features a glossary of slang words used in urban dialects.

  4. Always check the glossary if you encounter unfamiliar jargon.

  5. The editor added a glossary to make the manual more user-friendly.