file¹ (fīl)

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[From Middle English filen, to put documents on file, from Old French filer, to spin thread, to put documents on a thread, from Late Latin fīlāre, to spin, draw out in a long line, from Latin fīlum, thread.]

noun 

1. A container, such as a cabinet or folder, for keeping papers in order.
2. A collection of papers or published materials kept or arranged in convenient order.
3. Computer Science A collection of related data or program records stored as a unit with a single name.
4. 1. A line of persons, animals, or things positioned one behind the other.
   2. A line of troops or military vehicles so positioned.
5. Games Any of the rows of squares that run forward and backward between players on a playing board in chess or checkers.
6. Archaic A list or roll.

verb: filed, fil·ing, files. 

transitive verb 

1. To put or keep (papers, for example) in useful order for storage or reference.
2. To enter (a legal document) on public official record.
3. To send or submit (copy) to a newspaper.
4. To carry out the first stage of (a lawsuit, for example): filed charges against my associate.

intransitive verb 

1. To march or walk in a line.
2. To put items in a file.
3. To make application; apply: filed for a job with the state; file for a divorce.
4. To enter one's name in a political contest: filed for Congress.

idioms

on file

In or as if in a file for easy reference: We will keep your resumé on file.

file² (fīl)

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[Middle English, from Old English fīl.]

noun 

1. Any of several hardened steel tools with cutting ridges for forming, smoothing, or reducing especially metallic surfaces.
2. A nail file.
3. Chiefly British A crafty or artful person.

transitive verb: filed, fil·ing, files. 

To smooth, reduce, or remove with or as if with a file.

file³ (fīl)

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[Middle English filen, from Old English fȳlan.]

transitive verb: filed, fil·ing, files. 

To sully or defile.

fi·lé (fḗlā, fĭ-lā́)

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[Louisiana French, from French past participle of filer, to spin thread (from its effect when added to hot liquids), from Old French; see file¹.]

noun 

Powdered sassafras leaves used to thicken and season soups, stews, and gumbos.