In what ways are “Depository” and “Repository” similar?
“Depository” is a noun, is Latin in origin, and is defined by Merriam-Webster Dictionary as “a place where something is placed, especially to keep it safe.”
“Repository” is a noun, is Latin in origin, and is defined by Merriam-Webster Dictionary as “a place, a container, or a room where something is stored.”
Although these two definitions sound very similar, the dictionary goes on to further define the word “repository” as “someone or something that contains or stores something nonmaterial.”
For example:
Many considered the book a repository of information.
From these definitions, we can conclude that whereas a “depository” is a physical place, a “repository” can be both a physical as well as a virtual place.
Way back in the day, the two words were similar in meaning. Over the centuries, “repository” evolved within the context of its culture to become a more varied, more complex, and more modern word.
15th Century:
16th century:
17th century:
“Repository” also came to mean a warehouse, marketplace, or museum of art.
“Depository” was first used. It came from the Latin word “deponere” which means to lay away something or safeguard it.
18th century:
“Repository” also came to mean a natural resource site.
19th century:
21st century:
What does “Depository” Mean Today?
Some examples include:
• An office
• A bank
• A financial institution
• A vault or a safe
• Securities and assets
• Money
• Concrete documents
The services of a “depository” can include:
• Keeping investments secure
• Providing interest on investments
• Extending credit
• Protecting valuables from fraud, damage, or loss.
What does “Repository” mean today?
Virtual storage repositories are used widely in the world of Information Technology (IT), where one can find many different categories of virtual repositories.
Some examples include:
• A warehouse
• A museum
• A mausoleum
In the world of IT:
• Software
• Websites
• Virtual safes
• Books
• Information- knowledge- ideas
• Documents
• Files
• Data
• Programs
• Passwords
The services of a “repository” can include:
• Storing and indexing information and knowledge
• Searching and retrieving information and knowledge
Summary
“Repositories” and “depositories” are both options for storage, for protecting, and for safekeeping valuables.
A “depository” provides financial storage of tangible valuables such as money whereas a “repository” is a virtual safe which protects abstract assets such as knowledge and information.
Tip: You can differentiate the word “depository” by remembering the word “deposit” - this is easily associated with the concrete act of depositing your money into the bank.
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