folder

[ fohl-der ]

noun

1. a person or thing that folds.
2. a printed sheet, as a circular or timetable, folded into a number of usually pagelike sections.
3. a folded sheet of light cardboard used to cover or hold papers, letters, etc., as in a file.
4. Computers. directory ( def 4a ).

folder

/ ˈfəʊldə /

noun

1. a binder or file for holding loose papers, etc
2. a folded circular
3. a machine for folding printed sheets
4. a person or thing that folds
5. computing another name for directory

Word History and Origins

Origin of folder¹

First recorded in 1545–55; fold ¹ + -er ¹

Example Sentences

Unfortunately, Steve Kornacki and his many manila folders were not immediately forthcoming with answers, and so we turned to friends, family and online communities for reassurance.

From Salon

In a police interview in March 2022, Mr Khalife was asked about one of the documents found in a pink folder marked “secret” in his locked suitcase.

From BBC

For more than a year, Edgar Alejandro left his song “A Tu Lado” in the drafts folder of his phone, unsure of what the public would make of the mariachi and jazz fusion.

From Los Angeles Times

Dr Gilby was seeking two documents in particular, both of which she realised were missing from her inbox, and she also noted that her deleted items folder was empty, the tribunal was told.

From BBC

Bui, who appeared to be wearing blue latex gloves and carrying a black bag or folder in his left hand, walked over to the passenger side door and opened it, homicide investigators say.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• binder
• file
• pocket