file

a  : a device (such as a box, folder, or cabinet) in which documents that you want to keep are stored so that they can be found easily

b  : a collection of documents that have information you want to keep and that are stored so that they can be found easily

◊ Something that is on file is stored in a file.

• We'll keep your resume on file in case a suitable job becomes available.
• The company has several thousand customers on file.

[+] more examples [-] hide examples [+] Example sentences [-] Hide examples

: a collection of computer data that forms a single unit and that is given a particular name

[+ object] : to put (a document) in a place where it can be found easily : to place (something) in a file — often + away

: to give (something, such as an official form or a legal document) to someone in authority so that it can be considered, dealt with, approved, etc. + for

[+ object] : to send (a story or report) to a newspaper

: a metal tool that has sharp ridges and that is used to make rough surfaces smooth — see picture at carpentry; see also nail file

: to make something smooth by using a file

: a row of people, animals, or things that form a line — compare ¹rank; see also rank and file, single file

: to walk in a line