File

/faɪl/

Meaning & Definition

noun

A container for storing documents or data.

I placed the report in the appropriate file for future reference.

A collection of data, documents, or records stored in a digital format.

Please save your work as a PDF file.

A line of people or things arranged in a sequence.

The students formed a single file as they entered the classroom.

verb

To arrange or store documents or data in a systematic way.

She decided to file away all the old papers to free up space.

To formally submit a document, especially in a legal or official context.

He plans to file a complaint against the company.

Middle English: from Old French 'fil', based on Latin 'filum' meaning 'thread'.

file a complaint

To formally submit a complaint for consideration.

file for bankruptcy

To submit a legal petition to declare inability to pay debts.

file away

To put documents in their proper place for storage.

filing

The act of organizing and storing documents.

file cabinet

A piece of furniture with drawers used to store files.

file system

The method and structure used to manage files on a computer.

To file away

I'm going to file away all these old emails.

File it under 'L' for Laziness

When he didn't show up, I just filed it under 'L' for Laziness.