English Reference
noun

filing

n.
US /ˈfaɪɫɪŋ/ UK /fˈaɪlɪŋ/ fil·ing UK spelling filings

  1. 01 B2 Upper Intermediate

    the act of putting papers or digital files into a specific order so you can find them later.

    the systematic process of arranging and storing documents or records in a specific order for future retrieval.

    Simple

    I spent the whole afternoon doing the filing because my desk was a mess.

    In context

    The administrative assistant overhauled the entire filing system, transitioning from a chronological to an alphabetical arrangement to improve efficiency.

    Usage

    Often used as an uncountable noun for the general activity.

  2. 02 C1 Advanced FormalTechnical Law

    a formal document that has been sent to a court, government, or official office.

    a formal document or record submitted to a legal or regulatory authority.

    Simple

    The company made a new filing with the tax office yesterday.

    In context

    The court rejected the latest filing on the grounds that the evidence provided was insufficient to warrant a new hearing.

    Usage

    In this sense, the noun is countable.

  3. 03 C1 Advanced Technical Science

    very small pieces of metal or wood that are rubbed off when using a tool called a file.

    small particles or shavings of material, typically metal, removed by the abrasive action of a file.

    Simple

    The magnet pulled the iron filings across the paper in a pattern.

    In context

    The technician carefully swept away the metal filings to prevent them from contaminating the delicate internal components of the engine.

    Usage

    Usually used in the plural form.

    shavingsscrapsdust

It has made court filings in New York, Florida and Colorado to obtain papers it may submit to Swiss courts seeking criminal charges.

The Guardian· 27 Aug 2026

Uefa’s filing also requests information from other related parties, including JP Morgan.

The Guardian· 3 Sept 2026
This entry
Level B2 · Upper Intermediate
Frequency Common
Updated