identifier

American  

[ahy-den-tuh-fahy-er, i-den-] / aɪˈdɛn təˌfaɪ ər, ɪˈdɛn- /

noun

plural

identifiers

1. something, such as a name, number, code, label, etc., that serves to identify or represent a person or thing.

2. a book, computer application, or other source that one can use to identify something, such as a bird, plant, etc., by matching it with a sound, photo, or description in an inventory.

3. a person who identifies someone or something.

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identifier British  

/ aɪˈdɛntɪˌfaɪ /

noun

1. a person or thing that establishes the identity of someone or something

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Other Word Forms

• de-identifier noun
• non-identifier noun
• quasi-identifier noun
• self-identifier noun
• sub-identifier noun

Example Sentences

It was unclear initially who placed the bet because the anonymous account had a blockchain identifier of letters and numbers.

From BBC • Apr. 28, 2026

The artist’s last name is written in block letters along one edge, but there’s some confusion over whether the artist or the school added it later as an identifier.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 7, 2025

Furthermore, some critics of Rapid DNA have warned that by probing into a unique identifier that reveals sensitive medical information, the technology is a violation of privacy and civil liberties.

From Salon • Aug. 5, 2024

It serves, so to speak, as an identifier for the body cells.

From Science Daily • Mar. 25, 2024

It is customary for the first identifier to have the species named after him, or any name he chooses, so long as it is not already in use.

From "The Evolution of Calpurnia Tate" by Jacqueline Kelly