Search results for 'file':

file¹ noun 1 a folder or box in which to keep loose papers. 2 a collection of papers so kept, especially dealing with a particular subject. 3 computing an organized collection of data that is stored in the external memory of a computer, and can be accessed and manipulated as a single named unit. 4 a line of people or things, especially soldiers, positioned or moving one behind the other • single file. 5 chess any of the eight lines of squares extending across the chessboard from player to player. Compare rank¹. verb (filed, filing) 1 (often file something away) to put (papers, etc) into a file. 2 (often file for something) to make a formal application to a law court on (a specified matter) • file a complaint • file for divorce. 3 to place (a document) on official or public record. 4 intrans to march or move along one behind the other • The soldiers filed onto the square. 5 said of a reporter: to submit (a story) to a newspaper. filer noun. filed adj. on file retained in a file (noun 1 or 3 above) for reference; on record.
ETYMOLOGY: 16c: from Latin filum a thread, originally referring to a string or wire on which papers were hung.

file² noun 1 a steel hand tool with a rough surface consisting of fine parallel grooves with sharp cutting edges, used to smooth or rub away wood, metal, etc. 2 a small object of metal or emeryboard used for smoothing or shaping fingernails or toenails. Also called a nailfile. verb (filed, filing) to smooth or shape (a surface) using a file. filer noun. filed adj.
ETYMOLOGY: Anglo-Saxon fyl.