Definition

The complete name of a file on a computer, which shows where the file is located in the system's folders.

Example

To open the document, you need to enter the correct pathname in the file explorer.

Conversation

I think I forgot the pathname for that file I was working on.

Oh no! Do you remember where you saved it?

I believe it was in the documents folder, but I'm not sure of the full pathname.

Maybe try searching for the file name in the search bar to find the path.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

**Pathname** → It is formed from "path" (from Old English *pæth*, meaning a way or track) and "name" (from Old English *nama*, meaning a word by which a person or thing is known). The word "pathname" refers to the specific name or designation of a path or directory in a file system.

Memory Tip

Think of a 'path' as a way or track and 'name' as what we call something. A pathname is simply the name of that specific way or track in a file system.

Visually Confused Words