register

/ˈrɛdʒɪstər/
official record

The school maintains a register of all students.

The school keeps an official list of all enrolled students.


formal

An official list or record of names, items, or events.

The teacher marked the class register at the start of the lesson.

The teacher recorded attendance in the official class list.

Often used in educational, governmental, or organizational contexts.

formal

To enter or record information in an official list or database.

You need to register your car with the DMV.

You must officially record your vehicle with the Department of Motor Vehicles.

Commonly used in legal, administrative, or online contexts.

Engineering
technical

A mechanical device that records data, such as a cash register.

The cashier used the register to process the payment.

The cashier operated the machine that recorded the transaction.

Refers specifically to a machine used in retail or banking.

formal

To show or express a feeling or emotion.

Her face registered surprise at the unexpected news.

Her expression revealed that she felt surprised by the news.

Often used to describe emotional or physical responses.

technical

A range of a voice or instrument.

The soprano sang in a high register.

The soprano used the highest range of her voice.

Refers to the pitch range of a singer or instrument.

Collocations

cash registera machine that records sales in a storebirth registeran official record of birthsto register a complaintto formally report a grievance

Related Phrases

registered trademarkphrase
a trademark legally protected for exclusive use
registered nursephrase
a nurse who has met state requirements for licensure

Pro Tip

Distinguish verb and noun meanings

Pay attention to context: 'to register' (verb) means to record or enroll, while 'a register' (noun) refers to a list or device. Example: 'She will register for the course' (verb) vs. 'The teacher checked the register' (noun).

Gold Rule

Use 'register' for official records

When referring to official lists or databases, 'register' is the correct term. Avoid using it for informal or personal lists.

Word Origin

From Middle English *registre*, from Old French *registre*, from Medieval Latin *registrum*, from Latin *regestum* (thing written), from *regere* (to rule, direct).

Usage Notes

The verb 'register' can mean both the act of recording information and the act of showing emotion. The noun 'register' often refers to an official list or a mechanical device. Context determines the correct meaning.

Word Breakdown

re-
back, again
prefix
+
-gist-
to carry, bear
root
+
-er
one who does (noun) or action (verb)
suffix
English Dictionary