file

/faɪl/
verb
  1. To place documents or information in a particular order or in a designated place for storage.
    • She filed the tax return before the deadline.
    • I need to file all these receipts in the proper folders.
    • Please file these letters alphabetically.
  2. To submit or register something officially, such as a legal document or application.
    • They plan to file for divorce next month.
    • He filed a complaint with the customer service department.
    • The company filed a patent for its new invention.
  3. To walk in a line, one behind another.
    • The students filed into the auditorium quietly.
    • People filed out of the theater after the show ended.
    • The mourners filed past the coffin to pay their respects.
  4. To use a tool with a rough surface to smooth or shape something.
    • She carefully filed the rough edges off the piece of wood.
    • The mechanic filed the metal part to make it fit.
    • He filed his fingernails into a neat shape.
Antonyms
noun
  1. A folder or container for keeping loose papers together and in order.
    • I need a new file for all these receipts.
    • She put the contract in the red file labeled 'Important Documents'.
    • The office has a file for each employee's records.
  2. A collection of data stored on a computer under a single name.
    • The computer file was too large to email.
    • Please save the report as a PDF file.
    • I accidentally deleted the file with all my photos.
  3. A line of people or things one behind another.
    • The students stood in file waiting for the bell to ring.
    • A file of ants marched across the sidewalk.
    • The soldiers walked in single file through the forest.
  4. A metal tool with a rough surface used for smoothing or shaping hard materials.
    • He used a file to smooth the rough edges of the wood.
    • The carpenter sharpened the saw with a file.
    • A nail file is useful for shaping fingernails.