Python .dirname()

Published Jun 25, 2022Updated May 29, 2025

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The .dirname() method returns the part of the pathname ranging from the start to the last forward-slash.

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Syntax

os.path.dirname(path_string)

The path_string must be a string or byte data type.

Codebyte Example

The following example showcases the .dirname() method using a Codecademy URL:

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Learn Python on Codecademy

Career path
Computer Science
Looking for an introduction to the theory behind programming? Master Python while learning data structures, algorithms, and more!
Includes 6 Courses
With Professional Certification
Beginner Friendly.
75 hours
Course
Learn Python 3
Learn the basics of Python 3.12, one of the most powerful, versatile, and in-demand programming languages today.
With Certificate
Beginner Friendly.
24 hours