Phrase guide

circular file

noun · 2 senses · updated from the 2026-07-25 local source snapshot

Definitions and examples are grouped by meaning. Pronunciation, history, word forms, translations, descendants, synonyms, antonyms, derived terms, and related words appear whenever the source provides them.

Sound

Pronunciation

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1

noun

Meaning 1

The trash container; the wastebasket.

Definition source: English Wiktionary via Wiktextract

Usage: humorous, idiomatic

Examples

  • He was completely underqualified for the job, so I put his resume directly into the circular file.

Meaning relationships

Synonyms: round file, circular filing cabinet, file 13, bin, garbage can, garbage pail, trash bin, trash can, trashbin, trashcan, waste bin, wastebin

Antonyms: none provided

2

noun

Meaning 2

a container with an open top; for discarded paper and other rubbish

Definition source: Princeton WordNet 3.0

No example sentence was provided for this meaning.

Meaning relationships

Synonyms: wastepaper basket, waste-paper basket, wastebasket, waste basket

Antonyms: none provided

Broader terms: container

History

Etymology

In reference to the wastebasket's cylindrical shape, and the act of throwing things away rather than filing them in cabinets.

Across languages

Translations

1 source translations are retained for this English entry.

  • German: Rundordner — trash container, wastebasket