Filer Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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filer

[ˈfɪl.tər ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

computing

A software that processes data according to a set of criteria.

Synonyms

evaluator, processor, sorter.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
filer	A person who is responsible for organizing documents, papers, or digital files. The filer ensured all the tax documents were sorted by date She worked as a filer in the law office
processor	A person or machine that processes information, materials, or data. The data processor managed the entries in the database The meat processor handled all the raw material for the product
sorter	A person or machine that arranges items into categories or orders. The sorter divided the mail into different bins based on the zip codes At the recycling facility, the sorter separated plastic from paper
evaluator	Someone who assesses or judges the quality, importance, or value of something. The evaluator gave the project a high score for creativity He worked as a business evaluator for the company

Examples of usage

The email filter automatically sorts incoming messages into folders.
The spam filter blocks unwanted messages from reaching your inbox.

^{Context #2 | Verb}

general

To remove or separate unwanted elements from something.

Synonyms

screen, sift, strain.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
filer	Typically refers to a person or a tool that files documents or data systematically, often used in the context of organizing information or tax-related documents. The tax filer submitted their documents to the IRS. A good filer keeps everything in order.
strain	Typically refers to using a tool or material to separate solid matter from liquid, but can also refer to putting pressure on something or someone. It can have a negative connotation when referring to stress or tension. After cooking the pasta, make sure to strain the water. The long work hours began to strain their relationship.
sift	Used when you examine something carefully by separating it into different parts or elements, often used with powdery substances or detailed examinations. Sift the flour before adding it to the mixture. The detective had to sift through the evidence to find clues.
screen	Often used when you check or examine something in order to select, separate, or filter items based on specific criteria. It can also refer to a process of testing for diseases or other health conditions. The job candidates were carefully screened during the interview process. You should screen your emails for spam.

Examples of usage

She used a strainer to filter out the seeds from the juice.
The company will filter job applications based on qualifications.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Workplace Culture

In many offices, filers are crucial to maintaining an organized workspace, allowing others to find necessary documents easily.
With the rise of digital files, the role of a filer involves managing electronic documents and understanding file formats.
Some companies have adopted 'filing days' where employees focus on organizing their digital and physical documents to improve productivity.

Psychology

Research suggests that an organized workspace can lead to increased mental clarity and productivity.
The act of filing can be therapeutic, providing a sense of control and order in potentially chaotic environments.
People who practice good organization skills often report lower stress levels and better time management.

Technology

In computer terminology, to 'file' means to save information in a structured way, such as in folders or drives.
Software programs often include features to help users file documents more efficiently, utilizing tags and search functions.
Cloud storage systems revolutionized filing, enabling users to access their files from anywhere, raising issues of data security and privacy.

Comparative Languages

In Spanish, the word for filer is 'archivador,' which also means 'to archive' or 'to record,' emphasizing the importance of preservation.
In French, a filer can be referred to as 'classificateur,' focusing on the classification aspect of organizing documents.
Different cultures have varied practices on how documents are filed, reflecting their values on order and efficiency.

Origin of 'filer'

Main points about word origin

The word 'filer' comes from the verb 'to file,' which means to arrange or place documents in a specific order.
Originally, this term was used in the context of metalworking, where 'filer' referred to a tool used to smooth surfaces.
Over time, the meaning evolved to fit the organization of documents, highlighting the transition from physical tools to office tasks.

The word 'filter' originated from the Middle English word 'filten', which came from the Old French word 'feltre', meaning 'to filter'. The concept of filtering has been essential in various fields, from coffee brewing to signal processing in technology.

See also: files, filet, filing, misfile.