file

1 /faIl/ noun (C)

1 information about a particular person or subject that is kept by an official organization

(+ on): Mendoza read over the file on the murders again. | keep a file on (=collect and store information): The government keeps a file on known terrorists.

2 a box or folded piece of heavy paper that is used to store papers in the proper order: Fran came in holding a blue file.

3 a collection of information on a computer that is stored under a particular name: a spreadsheet file

4 on file

a) kept in a file so that it can be used later: We will keep your application on file.

b) officially recorded: The petition has to be on file by March 3rd.

5 a metal tool with a rough surface used to smooth other surfaces or to cut through wood, metal etc

—see also: nail file

6 a line of people one behind the other : in file: walking in file

—see also: Indian file, single file, rank and file 2 verb

1 (intransitive always + adv/prep) to walk in a line of people, one behind the other

(+ past/into/through etc): The mourners filed past the coffin.

2 (intransitive always + adv/prep, transitive) law to officially record something such as a complaint, law case, official document etc: Mr Genoa filed a formal complaint against the department.

(+ for): The Morrisons have filed for divorce.

3 (T) to keep papers with information on them in a particular place so that you can find them easily: Contributors' contracts are filed alphabetically. | file sth away: The exam papers will be filed away in my office.

4 (intransitive always + adv/prep, transitive) to cut or rub something or make something smooth, using a metal tool with a rough surface: She was filing her nails.

(+ through/away/down etc): I need to file down the sharp edges.