Stapling Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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stapling

[หˆsteษชplษชล‹ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

office supplies

The act of fastening papers together with a staple or staples.

Synonyms

attaching, clipping, fastening.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
stapling

Used when connecting sheets of paper together using a staple, typically for organizing documents.

  • I finished stapling the reports before the meeting.
  • She was stapling the pages together to keep them organized.
fastening

General term for securely closing or connecting two or more objects, often used in the context of clothing, belts, or mechanical parts.

  • Make sure you are fastening your seatbelt before driving.
  • She was fastening the buttons on her coat.
attaching

General term for connecting or fastening objects, can be used in various contexts including emails, physical objects, etc.

  • Please attach the file to the email.
  • He was attaching his photo to the application form.
clipping

Used for connecting items using clips, often for organizing documents or items temporarily.

  • She was clipping the papers together using a binder clip.
  • He clipped the name tag to his shirt.

Examples of usage

  • He used stapling to keep his documents organized.
  • The stapling machine is located in the corner of the office.
Context #2 | Verb

action

To fasten papers together using a staple or staples.

Synonyms

attach, clip, fasten.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
stapling

Use this when referring to joining papers together with a staple. Commonly used in office settings.

  • I spent the afternoon stapling reports for the meeting.
  • Donโ€™t forget to staple the pages of your assignment.
fasten

Use 'fasten' when you need to secure or join objects, especially in a more durable or secure way. It is often used for clothing or objects.

  • Fasten your seatbelt before the plane takes off.
  • She fastened the necklace around her neck.
attach

Use 'attach' when you need to refer to adding or connecting something to another object. It is versatile and can be used in many contexts.

  • Please attach the file to your email.
  • She attached a photo to the application form.
clip

Best for situations where you are using a paperclip or a similar tool to hold items together temporarily.

  • Iโ€™ll clip these documents together so they donโ€™t get lost.
  • Make sure to clip the notes before filing them.

Examples of usage

  • She was stapling the handouts for the presentation.
  • Remember to staple the report before submitting it.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Technology

  • The first patented stapler was created in the 18th century in France and was used to fasten together sheets of paper with metal pieces.
  • Modern staplers have evolved from hand-cranked versions to electric staplers, making the process much easier and faster.
  • There are now sustainable and eco-friendly staplers available that don't use metal staples at all!

Pop Culture

  • Staplers have appeared in various films and TV shows, often as symbols of office life and monotony, such as in the movie 'Office Space.'
  • The humble stapler has inspired quirky accessories and has a dedicated fanbase, leading to events like the 'World's Largest Stapler' contest.
  • In popular culture, staplers are often linked with office pranks, showcasing their humorous side in the workplace.

Psychology

  • Using a stapler can have a calming effect for some people, providing a sense of order in a chaotic work environment.
  • The repetitive action of stapling can be a simple stress-reliever, as it requires focus and can provide a sense of accomplishment.
  • Organizing documents with a stapler might help enhance productivity by creating a clear structure.

Art

  • Some artists use staplers in their work, creating installations or sculptures by binding various materials together.
  • In mixed media art, staples can be used to attach elements, adding texture and dimension to the artwork.
  • Art projects and crafts often involve stapling as a quick and efficient way to assemble pieces.

Origin of 'stapling'

Main points about word origin

  • The term 'staple' comes from Middle English 'stapel,' meaning a place where goods are collected or stored.
  • The verb form of 'staple' meaning to fasten items together started gaining usage in the 19th century.
  • Before the metal staple, cloth or string was commonly used to bind documents together.

The word 'stapling' is derived from the verb 'staple', which originated from Old French 'estaple' meaning 'market'. The use of 'stapling' in the context of fastening papers together with metal clips dates back to the early 20th century. It has since become a common practice in offices and schools for organizing documents.


See also: staples.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #32,106 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.