paperwork

noun

pa·​per·​work ˈpā-pər-ˌwərk How to pronounce paperwork (audio)
: routine clerical or recordkeeping work often incidental to a more important task

Examples of paperwork in a Sentence

She failed to file the paperwork on time. The lawyer had us fill in the paperwork for the mortgage.
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.
Yes, although some choose presentation because attorneys know how to organize evidence, manage paperwork, and respond to insurance companies. Maria Williams, USA Today, 17 Feb. 2026 The bill seeks to speed up federal assistance by reducing redundant paperwork and creating a faster payment system for small disasters. Lauren Sommer, NPR, 17 Feb. 2026 Different strategies Parents are typically asked to sign paperwork at enrollment granting consent for the schools to give their kids laptops. Tyler Kingkade, NBC news, 16 Feb. 2026 Mackowiak posted the provisional ballot along with Hunt’s discharge paperwork to show he was discharged in 2012. Joseph Morton, Dallas Morning News, 16 Feb. 2026 See All Example Sentences for paperwork

Word History

First Known Use

1899, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of paperwork was in 1899

Cite this Entry

“Paperwork.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/paperwork. Accessed 18 Feb. 2026.

Kids Definition

paperwork

noun
pa·​per·​work -ˌwərk How to pronounce paperwork (audio)
: routine office or record-keeping work

More from Merriam-Webster on paperwork

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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