Folder Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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folder

[ˈfoʊldər ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

storage

A folded collection of papers, typically stored in a filing cabinet.

Synonyms

binder, directory, file.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
folder	Typically used to describe a digital or physical container that holds a group of related files or documents. Common in both office and computer settings. Please save the document in the 'Projects' folder. I bought a new folder to keep my lecture notes organized.
file	Can be used to describe a single document or item, either physically (like a Manila folder) or digitally (a computer document). The term is versatile and widely used. Please upload the file to the shared drive. She kept the confidential papers in a secure file.
binder	Often refers to a physical tool used in offices or schools to organize and protect papers. It usually includes rings to hold punched papers together. She stored all her class notes in a three-ring binder. We use a binder to keep track of client contracts.
directory	Typically used in a technical or digital setting to refer to a systemized list of files or contacts. Common in computer science and network management. The directory contains all the project's source files. You can find his number in the company directory.

Examples of usage

I need to organize the documents in this folder.
She keeps all her important papers in a folder on her desk.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

computing

An organizational unit on a computer that stores files and other folders.

Synonyms

directory, subdirectory.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
folder	Redundant, covered in the first entry.
directory	More technical term usually used in computing and IT contexts. It often refers to a structured location on a computer or network that can contain files and other directories. The system administrator needs to update the directory permissions. Please check the main directory for the configuration files.
subdirectory	Used specifically to indicate a directory that is nested within another directory. This term is often used in more technical or structured contexts relating to computing. You will find the backup files in the subdirectory named 'Archives'. Make sure to create a subdirectory for each project to keep things organized.

Word

Description / Examples

folder

Redundant, covered in the first entry.

Examples of usage

You can find the file in the 'Documents' folder on the computer.
The folder contains all the images for the project.

^{Context #3 | Verb}

arranging

To arrange documents or files in a folder for organization.

Synonyms

file, organize, store.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
folder	This term is used to describe a space, usually on a computer or in a physical filing system, where you keep various documents or files grouped together. I created a new folder on my desktop for all the project files. Please place all the invoices in the 'Invoices' folder.
file	This term can refer to a single document or item that can be stored electronically or physically. It represents the individual units of data or documents. Please open the file named 'report.docx'. I need to find the client file to check the details.
organize	This term is used when you want to arrange things in a structured order. It applies both to physical and digital spaces. I need to organize my desk before I start working. Let's organize the files by date so they are easier to find.
store	This term is used to describe the action of keeping something in a particular place for future use. It can apply to both digital data and physical items. You can store all these documents in the archive room. Make sure to store your backups in a secure location.

Examples of usage

I need to folder these papers before the meeting.
She folders all her emails to keep track of them.

Translations

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

Origin of 'folder'

The word 'folder' originated from the Old French word 'fondrer' meaning 'to fold'. It was first used in the 15th century to refer to a folded collection of papers. Over time, with the advancement of technology, the term also came to be used in computing to refer to an organizational unit for storing files. The concept of folder has evolved to become an essential tool for organization and storage in both physical and digital contexts.

See also: bifold, fold, foldable, folding, unfold.

Word Frequency Rank

Position #7,665 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.

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7662 prohibiting
7663 quoting
7664 lab
7665 folder
7666 wiped
7667 parted
7668 suggestive
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