filing

Everyday

1. Filing is putting papers or computer documents in order in files or folders. tree →
2. Filings are tiny pieces rubbed off metal with a file, such as iron filings. tree →
3. Filing is also the «-ing» form of «file»: walking in a line (filing into class), smoothing with a file (filing nails), or sending a document officially. tree →

In the lessons

In science lessons iron filings sprinkled round a magnet show the pattern of the magnetic field. In school pupils file into assembly in a line. In offices filing keeps papers tidy. Phrases: «iron filings», «filing cabinet», «filing into the hall».

Examples

• The iron filings made a pattern round the magnet. tree →
• Mum keeps her letters in a filing cabinet. tree →
• The children were filing quietly into the hall. tree →
• She is filing her nails smooth. tree →
• Dad spent the evening doing his filing. tree →
• Sprinkle the filings gently over the paper. tree →
• Don't blow iron filings; they can get in your eyes. tree →

Note

Spelling: one «l» (file to filing, drop the «e»). Do not confuse with «filling» (double «l», what goes inside a sandwich or a tooth). Safety: iron filings are sharp and can hurt eyes; handle them carefully.

In Jewish tradition

In First Samuel the Philistines let no smith be found in Israel and made the Israelites pay to sharpen their tools.

Interpretation. Tradition reads this as a sign of how thoroughly the Philistines held Israel down, so that the people had no weapons.

Examples

• And the price of the filing was a pim for the mattocks, and for the coulters, and for the forks with three teeth, and for the axes; and to set the goads. (Prophets 1SA.13.21, JPS 1917) tree →

Note

Spelling: one «l» (file to filing, drop the «e»). Do not confuse with «filling» (double «l», what goes inside a sandwich or a tooth). Safety: iron filings are sharp and can hurt eyes; handle them carefully.