file1

Syllabification: (file)

Pronunciation: /fīl/

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Definition of file

noun

a folder or box for holding loose papers that are typically arranged in a particular order for easy reference:a file of correspondence
the contents of a file folder or box.
Computing a collection of data, programs, etc., stored in a computer’s memory or on a storage device under a single identifying name:do you want to save this file? [as modifier]:a file name

verb

[with object]

place (a document) in a cabinet, box, or folder in a particular order for preservation and easy reference:the contract, when signed, is filed figurativehe still had the moment filed away in his memory
submit (a legal document, application, or charge) to be placed on record by the appropriate authority:criminal charges were filed against the firm [no object]:the company had filed for bankruptcy
(of a reporter) send (a story) to a newspaper or news organization.

Phrases

on file: in a file or filing system.

Derivatives

filer

Origin:

late Middle English (as a verb meaning 'string documents on a thread or wire to keep them in order'): from French filer 'to string', fil 'a thread', both from Latin filum 'a thread'. Compare with file²

file in other Oxford dictionaries

Definition of file in the British & World English dictionary

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Other

file1

noun

verb

Phrases

on file

Derivatives

filer

Origin:

file in other Oxford dictionaries

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