file*/*/*/

[faɪl] noun [C] I

1) a set of documents or records that you keep because they contain information

medical files[/ex]

We have all your details on file (= kept in a file).[/ex]

The police file on the case has now been closed.[/ex]

2) a set of information that is stored on a computer and that is given a particular name

3) a metal tool that is used for making wood or metal smooth

4) a box or container in which papers are kept together

II

verb

file */*/[faɪl]

1) [T] to put a document into a container with other documents

File the forms in alphabetical order.[/ex]

2) [T] to make an official statement or complaint by giving it to people in authority

The family has filed a lawsuit against the company.[/ex]

The couple filed for divorce (= told the court that they wanted to be divorced) last month.[/ex]

3) [I] if people file somewhere, they walk there in a line

Students filed into the lecture hall.[/ex]

4) [T] to rub something with a metal tool in order to make it smooth, or in order to cut it

•

file a report — to send an official news report to a newspaper or television station[/ex]