Word of the Day: File

file file / fīl noun 1. a line of objects, arranged one behind the other The fairways were so narrow you had to walk down them single file. Sam Snead, 1912-2002 2. a metal tool with a rough edge for making things smooth Praise God for the hammer, the file, and the furnace. The hammer molds us, the file sharpens us, and the fire tempers us. Samuel Rutherford, 1600 – 1661 3. a collection of papers, arranged in order Before negotiating a raise, start collecting a file of evidence showing how you’ve impacted the bottom line. Pat Heim, 1950 – 4. a stored collection of data XML combines the efficiency of text files with the readability of binary files. Andrew S. Tanenbaum, 1944 – 5. a device, such as a folder, drawer or cabinet, used to hold papers Where’s the file that’s supposed to hold my W-2 form and interest statement? Cathy Guisewite. 1950 – verb 1. to make a surface smooth through friction with a tool I’m thinking that I shouldn’t have filed my nails last night. Dara Torres, 1967 – 2. to organize papers or other items into an orderly system But remember, before you file anything, that 80 percent of all items that are filed or stored are never referred to again. From “Earn What You’re Really Worth: Maximize Your Income at Any Time in Any Market” by Brian Tracy, 1944 – 3. to walk or proceed, one behind another, in an orderly line We must not forget that these men and women who file through the narrow gates at Ellis Island, hopeful, confused, with bundles of misconceptions as heavy as the great sacks upon their backs these simple, rough-handed people are the ancestors of our descendants, the fathers and mothers of our children. Walter Weyl. 1873 – 1919 4. to submit information to a public entity Uncle claims that if he files his income tax wrong he’ll go to jail, and if he files it right he’ll go to the poor house. Nonnee Coan, 1910 – 1992 5. to initiate a legal action by submitting formal required documents We are going to file a suit to the Hague tribunal, which must investigate into these crimes against humanity, it is a test for humanity and moral dignity. Petro Poroshenko, 1965 – 6. to register as a candidate for an election Republican Congressman Duncan Hunter has filed papers to run for president. Conan O’Brien, 1963 – **************** filé fi-lé / fē-lā, fĭ-lā noun 1. a powder used for thickening and seasoning soups, stews and gumbos made from sassafras leaves Ask any Louisianan cook what kind of gumbo she makes and she’ll likely answer with her thickener of choice: roux, okra or filé. Sara Roahen, ? –