folder

noun

fold·​er ˈfōl-dər How to pronounce folder (audio)
Synonyms of foldernext
1
: one that folds
2
: a folded printed circular
3
a
: a folded cover or large envelope for holding or filing loose papers
b
: an organizational element of a computer operating system used to group files or other folders together

Examples of folder in a Sentence

a folder offering tips for heating one's home efficiently
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
No folder of papers could be left blank. Sarah Shachat, IndieWire, 30 Mar. 2026 Notably, the Teams plan is the only one that allows for more than two collaborators and folders. Ruben Circelli, PC Magazine, 28 Mar. 2026 The emails Handala posted are curated and are arranged into folders last modified on May 21, 2025. Kevin Collier, NBC news, 27 Mar. 2026 In the footage, someone with a manila folder approaches the stage as Mwanyenyeka performs. Michelle Del Rey, USA Today, 26 Mar. 2026 See All Example Sentences for folder

Word History

First Known Use

1552, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of folder was in 1552

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Folder.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/folder. Accessed 1 Apr. 2026.

Kids Definition

folder

noun
fold·​er ˈfōl-dər How to pronounce folder (audio)
1
: one that folds
2
: a printed circular of folded sheets
3
a
: a folded cover or large envelope for holding loose papers
b
: an element of a computer operating system used to group and organize files

More from Merriam-Webster on folder

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!

More from Merriam-Webster