paperwork

noun

pa·​per·​work ˈpā-pər-ˌwərk How to pronounce paperwork (audio)
: routine clerical or recordkeeping work often incidental to a more important task

Examples of paperwork in a Sentence

She failed to file the paperwork on time. The lawyer had us fill in the paperwork for the mortgage.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Smith testified that Hernandez said during the interview that the DTE equipment and paperwork was provided by a third-party individual, who was not identified. Christina Hall, Detroit Free Press, 17 Dec. 2024 His victory sent him into a whirlwind of interviews, media requests and paperwork. Holly V. Hays, The Indianapolis Star, 16 Dec. 2024 Finally, for your charitable regift to be effective, some special language in the paperwork is required. Robert W. Wood, Forbes, 16 Dec. 2024 Beth isn't the only one making good on promises, as Rainwater is meeting with Kayce to go over the final paperwork of the ranch sale. Matt Cabral, EW.com, 16 Dec. 2024 See all Example Sentences for paperwork 

Word History

First Known Use

1899, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of paperwork was in 1899

Dictionary Entries Near paperwork

Cite this Entry

“Paperwork.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/paperwork. Accessed 23 Dec. 2024.

Kids Definition

paperwork

noun
pa·​per·​work -ˌwərk How to pronounce paperwork (audio)
: routine office or record-keeping work

More from Merriam-Webster on paperwork

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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