# DOCS

/ˈdɑks/ (US) · /dˈɒks/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/docs
Updated: 2026-08-08

## Senses

### 1. documentation

noun · CEFR B1 · Informal · Technical

short for 'documents' or 'documentation', often used for computer files or instructions.

For teachers: a clipped form of 'documentation' or 'documents', frequently used in technical and computing contexts to refer to manuals or project files.

- You should read the docs before you try to install the new software.
- The developer spent the afternoon updating the technical docs to ensure the new API endpoints were clearly explained for the rest of the team.

Usage: Usually plural; often used in the phrase 'the docs'.

Teaching tip: In professional tech environments, this is the standard way to refer to manuals and help files.

### 2. boots

noun · CEFR B2 · Informal · British English

a short name for Dr. Martens, which are a famous brand of heavy leather boots.

For teachers: an informal plural referring to Dr. Martens brand footwear, known for their air-cushioned soles and yellow stitching.

- She wore her new black Docs with a floral dress.
- He had owned the same pair of Docs for nearly a decade, claiming they only became truly comfortable after the first three years of wear.

Usage: Always plural and usually capitalized.

Teaching tip: While originally British, this term is understood globally among fashion and music subcultures.

### 3. doctors

noun · CEFR B2 · Informal

a very casual way to say 'doctors'.

For teachers: a highly informal plural for 'doctors'.

- I don't like going to the docs, but I need to check my blood pressure.
- After the accident, he spent more time talking to docs and nurses than to his own family.

Usage: Plural of the clipped form 'doc'.

Teaching tip: This is very casual; advise students to use 'doctors' in any professional or serious medical situation.

## Examples

- Please send me the docs by Friday.
- The lawyer asked for all the docs related to the property sale.
- In the digital age, managing cloud-based docs requires strict access controls to prevent data leaks.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.