Interfile Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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interfile

[ˌɪn.təˈfaɪl ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

file management

Interfile means to place or insert one file among other files in a specific order or manner. This action typically involves reorganizing or integrating documents into a larger filing system for better accessibility.

Synonyms

arrange, insert, reorganize.

Examples of usage

  • Please interfile these documents with the rest of the project files.
  • The assistant was instructed to interfile the new reports accordingly.
  • After reviewing, she decided to interfile the notes into the correct folders.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Technology

  • In digital systems, interfiling often refers to how databases sort and merge different sets of data for efficient retrieval.
  • File management software uses interfiling techniques to streamline user access to documents by creating connections between related files.
  • Interfiling can be seen in cloud storage as well, allowing users to tag and categorize documents across multiple formats.

Library Science

  • Interfile can refer to the practice of arranging books and resources based on subjects or themes rather than strict separation.
  • This method enhances discoverability in libraries, allowing patrons to find related resources side by side.
  • Many modern libraries use interfile systems to integrate digital and physical resources seamlessly.

Psychology

  • Cognitive psychologists study interfiling strategies to understand how people group and retrieve information from memory.
  • Interfiling can enhance memory retention by creating associations between different pieces of information.
  • Research shows that organizing related content can reduce cognitive overload when processing complex information.

Business

  • In corporate environments, interfile practices help maintain efficiency by ensuring documents are easily accessible across departments.
  • Effective interfiling strategies can lead to improved productivity, as employees spend less time searching for information.
  • Companies often adopt technology that allows for interfiling to manage vast amounts of data seamlessly.

Origin of 'interfile'

Main points about word origin

  • The term combines 'inter-' meaning 'between' or 'among' with 'file', which comes from the Latin word 'filare', meaning 'to spin' or 'to string together'.
  • It gained use in information management contexts in the late 20th century as databases began to grow.
  • The roots suggest a method of organizing information that acts as a web, linking related items.

The term 'interfile' combines the prefix 'inter-' meaning 'between' or 'among' from Latin, and 'file', which comes from the Latin 'filum', meaning 'thread'. The concept of filing has been around for centuries, particularly in administrative practices. In the 20th century, with the rise of modern documentation and office organization, 'interfile' became associated with the act of integrating or rearranging files to maintain an orderly information system. The evolution of technology and digital filing systems has further popularized the term as businesses continue to seek efficient methods of document management.