Documentation

/ˌdɒkjʊmenˈteɪʃən/

Meaning & Definition

noun
the action or process of documenting or the documents that provide official information or evidence
He submitted the required documentation to complete his application.
materials providing official information or evidence, especially in the context of procedures, programs, or systems
The software company provided comprehensive documentation to help users navigate the system.
written or printed material that gives information or evidence
She collected all the documentation needed for her tax return.
a systematic collection of information or data about a subject
The project included detailed documentation to facilitate future research.

Etymology

From Latin 'documentum', meaning 'a lesson, a proof, or a written evidence'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

technical documentation
Documents that detail the technical specifications and procedures for a software system.
user documentation
Instructions or manuals provided to users of a product to help them understand how to use it.
documentation process
The steps involved in preparing documentation for a product or service.

Related Words

document
A written or printed paper that provides information or evidence.
report
A formal account of an event or situation, often with a specified purpose.
manual
A booklet or handbook containing instructions for doing or operating something.

Slang Meanings

Doc
I need to check the doc for all the latest updates.
Paper trail
Make sure we keep a good paper trail for the audit.