Origin: Latin suffix -able
Definition, synonyms and related words
Capable of being searched, especially something that has an automated search function included.
"The online database is searchable, allowing users to instantly find articles by typing keywords into the provided field."
In plain English: Something is searchable if you can easily find specific information inside it by using keywords to look through its contents.
"The online database is fully searchable, allowing users to find specific records in seconds."
Usage: Use searchable to describe databases or websites where users can find specific information using keywords rather than browsing manually. This term is often applied when highlighting the efficiency of digital tools compared to static documents.
This word is formed by adding the suffix "-able" to "search," creating an adjective that describes something capable of being searched. It entered English as a straightforward combination of these two existing parts to express the quality of being searchable.