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inventory

noun

/ˈɪnv(ə)nt(ə)ri/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of inventory

A list or a record of items or goods that are in stock, including details such as quantity, condition, and location.
"The inventory of tools in the shed was organized by category."

Detailed meaning of inventory

It can be used in a variety of contexts, such as business, retail, and manufacturing. In business, an inventory is a record of the goods and materials that a company has on hand, including raw materials, finished products, and supplies. This inventory is used to track what items are available and to plan for future production or sales.

In retail, an inventory is a record of the items that a store has in stock and on display for sale. This inventory is used to track what items are available, manage stock levels, and plan for future purchases. In manufacturing, an inventory is a record of the raw materials and components that are used to produce finished goods. This inventory is used to track what materials are available and to plan for future production.

In broader sense, an inventory can also be used to refer to any comprehensive list or record of items, such as an inventory of assets, an inventory of personal property, or an inventory of skills.

Example sentences containing inventory

1. The inventory of food in the pantry was checked before going grocery shopping.
2. The store manager was conducting an inventory, counting the stock of goods on the shelves.
3. The warehouse worker was updating the inventory, as new shipments arrived and old ones were shipped out.
4. The business owner was reviewing the inventory, checking for any discrepancies and ordering more supplies as needed.
5. The inventory of parts in the warehouse was tracked using a computer system.
6. The accountant was reconciling the inventory, making sure the records matched the actual stock.

History and etymology of inventory

The noun 'inventory' traces its etymology to Latin and later Old French. It has its roots in the Latin word 'inventarium,' which referred to a detailed list or catalog of items or possessions. This Latin term was derived from 'invenire,' meaning 'to find' or 'to discover.' Over time, 'inventarium' evolved into the Old French word 'inventoire,' and subsequently, Middle English adopted it as 'inventorie.' The term 'inventory' in its modern sense emerged from Middle English, signifying a comprehensive record or list of items, goods, or assets, often with specific details like quantity, condition, and location. Today, an inventory remains a crucial tool in various fields, including business, retail, and logistics, facilitating effective management and tracking of resources and merchandise.

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Further usage examples of inventory

1. The buyer was conducting an inventory, selecting items to purchase for the company.
2. The researcher was conducting an inventory, counting the number of species in the ecosystem.
3. The farmer was keeping an inventory, tracking the production of crops and livestock.
4. The inventory of cars on the lot was updated daily.
5. The artist was taking inventory of her supplies, ordering more materials as she ran low.
6. The mechanic was checking the inventory, making sure he had all the necessary tools and parts to repair the machinery.
7. The museum curator was conducting an inventory, updating the catalog of the collection.
8. The inventory of books in the library was catalogued and searchable online.
9. The homeowner was conducting an inventory, checking the contents of the attic and basement.
10. The archaeologist was conducting an inventory, documenting the artifacts found at the dig site.
11. The inventory of goods in the store was checked regularly.
12. The warehouse manager updated the inventory daily.
13. The store conducted a thorough inventory check.
14. They needed to replenish their depleted inventory.
15. The audit revealed discrepancies in the inventory.
16. Tracking inventory levels is essential for retail businesses.
17. The spreadsheet contains a detailed inventory list.
18. The company's inventory system is efficient and accurate.
19. The inventory control software streamlined operations.
20. He carefully managed the inventory of rare books.
21. The restaurant's inventory included fresh ingredients.
22. The inventory count showed a surplus of office supplies.
23. The inventory management team worked tirelessly.
24. The shop closed temporarily for a full inventory assessment.