Sortens

Sortens is a term used in discussions of classification and categorization to denote a class of items or subcategories within a given domain. It is not tied to a single discipline and can be applied across fields to describe a logical grouping based on shared properties or functions. In this sense, sortens function as the building blocks of a taxonomy or ontology, providing a framework for organizing data, objects, or concepts.

Etymologically, sortens draws on the root sort-, meaning kind or class, combined with a suffix pattern found in many languages that forms abstract nouns or plural classifications. In English-language discussions, sortens may be treated as a generic plural or collective noun for categories within a schema, though its usage remains informal and context-dependent.

In information science and data modeling, sortens refer to the defined categories into which items can be sorted or grouped according to a schema or ontology. In philosophy or cognitive linguistics, sortens can be used to discuss cognitive or perceptual categories that humans use to structure experience. Sortens are typically organized in a hierarchical or lattice-like structure, with top-level sortens containing sub-sortens that capture increasingly specific properties.

Relation to other concepts: sortens are distinct from the act of sorting, which is a computational or procedural operation that places items into existing sortens. They are closely related to taxonomy, classification, and ontology, and their usefulness depends on clear, standardized criteria for membership and disjointness or overlap among categories.

Limitations and considerations: the term is not widely standardized, so its precise meaning can vary by domain. Clear definitions, documentation, and interoperability requirements are essential when employing sortens in real-world schemas.