Document

Definition

Document is a noun and a verb. As a noun, it refers to a written or printed paper, often official, that provides information, evidence, or serves as a record. As a verb, it means to create an official record or provide written evidence of something.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈdɑːkjʊmənt/ (noun), /ˈdɑːkjʊˌmɛnt/ (verb)
• Respelling: DAH-kyuh-muhnt (noun), DAH-kyuh-ment (verb)

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈdɒkjʊmənt/ (noun), /ˈdɒkjʊˌmɛnt/ (verb)
• Respelling: DOK-yuh-muhnt (noun), DOK-yuh-ment (verb)

Etymology

The word "document" originates from the Latin "documentum," meaning "a lesson or proof," derived from "docere," meaning "to teach." It entered English via Old French "document," initially referring to teaching material and evolving to mean written records or evidence.

Derivatives

• Documentation (noun)
• Documentary (noun/adjective)
• Documented (adjective)
• Documenting (verb)
• Undocumented (adjective)

Synonyms

• Record
• File
• Certificate

Antonyms

• None

Usage

The term "document" is often used in legal, administrative, and archival contexts to refer to official records, as in "Please submit the necessary documents for verification." As a verb, it means to officially record information, such as "The scientist documented her findings."

Related Terms

• Archive: A collection of documents or records.
• Manuscript: A handwritten or typed document, often unpublished.
• Certificate: An official document that serves as proof or validation.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• A written or printed paper that provides information or evidence: Refers to an official or legal record.
  • Example: "He presented his birth document as proof of identity."
• An electronic file containing text, images, or data: Refers to digital records created on computers.
  • Example: "She saved the document on her laptop."

Verb

• To record or provide evidence in writing: Describes the act of formally noting or recording details.
  • Example: "The historian documented the event thoroughly."
• To create a written or digital record of something: Refers to the act of capturing information for future reference.
  • Example: "The photographer documented the project with photographs."