chain index
n.
An index that uses hierarchical headings that reflect a faceted classification scheme.
Notes
The technique of chain indexing was developed by Ranganathan.
Citations
Lancaster 1998, p. 54 [Chain indexing includes] each step of the hierarchical chain from the most specific to the most general. Thus, an item represented by the class number AbCfHYqZh would generate the following index entries: Nineteenth century, Germany, Manufacture, Woolen goods, Clothing (AbCfHYqZh); Germany, Manufacture, Woolen goods, Clothing (AbCfHYq); Manufacture, Woolen goods, Clothing (AbCfH); Woolen goods, Clothing (AbCf); Clothing (Ab).
