a folder, cabinet, or other container in which papers, letters, etc., are arranged in convenient order for storage or reference.

a collection of papers, records, etc., arranged in convenient order: to make a file for a new account.

Computers. a collection of related data or program records stored on some input/output or auxiliary storage medium: This program's main purpose is to update the customer master file.

a line of persons or things arranged one behind another (distinguished from rank).

Military. a person in front of or behind another in a military formation. one step on a promotion list.