What does tag mean?
A tag is a label, marker, or identifying symbol attached to an object or added to information. It may be a physical piece of card or plastic, a digital keyword associated with a post, or an element used to structure markup such as HTML. The word commonly refers to identifying something quickly and organizing it so that related items can be found. For example, a name tag identifies a person, a price tag states an object's price, and a digital tag helps users search for content. The verb “to tag” means to attach such a marker or to assign a label. Although usually practical and neutral, the verb can be negative when used to describe casually assigning a stigmatizing label to someone. The word is also used in computing, publishing, and visual culture, where it describes markers that convey metadata, categories, structure, or authorship.
A small label, marker, or piece of identifying information attached to an object or associated with digital content.
"The bag has a name tag on the strap."
In digital publishing and social media, a tag often consists of a keyword or phrase used for classification and search.
To attach an identifying marker to something, or to assign a word, phrase, symbol, or category to it.
"Photographers often tag their images with relevant keywords."
The verb can be disparaging when used to label a person or group.
The plural is used for individual labels, markers, keywords, or markup elements.
"The clerk removed the old tags from the inventory boxes."
From a physical luggage tag to a hashtag, a tag adds just enough information to make something recognizable, searchable, or personal.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does tag come from?
The English word appears by the late 16th century in the sense of a label or marker attached to an object. Its precise origin is disputed, and proposals connecting it with related words in Germanic languages are not entirely secure. Over time, its meaning expanded to include graffiti signatures, digital keywords, and elements in markup languages.
Related word forms
How tag is actually used
The word is neutral when referring to an identifying marker. In the sense of labeling a person, however, it can sound dismissive or insulting, especially when the tag implies a social category. In digital contexts, a tag is commonly a keyword or hashtag attached to content.
Easily confused with tag
A tag is typically a small attached or digital marker, while a label is a broader term for any written or printed piece of identifying information.