File
Defined in 2 dictionaries — Kinney (1893), Black's (1891)
A Law Dictionary and Glossary
George C. Kinney · 1893
A string or wire, upon which writs and other exhibits in courts and offices were formerly fastened or filed for safe-keeping; the paper itself or a number of papers so filed.
A Dictionary of Law
Henry Campbell Black · 1891
n. A thread, string, or wire upon which writs and other exhibits in courts and offices are fastened or filed for the more safe-keeping and ready turning to the same. Spelman; Cowell; Tomlins, Papers put togither and tied in bundles. A paper is said also to be filed when it is delivered to the proper officer, and by him received to be kept Gwihle, 13 Vin. Abr 2h? Lith, 113; 1 Hawk. P, C.7, 207. But, in general, “file,” or “the files,” is used lousely to denote the official custody of the court or the place in the offices of a court where the records and papers are kept.