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.
The logistics industry has adapted accordingly, finding new software to certify driver’s licenses and paperwork, as well as using generative AI to track cargo. Sasha Rogelberg, Fortune, 3 July 2026 The fact is the Original 13 state keeps some paperwork under lock and key for 100 years to everyone except the participants. Dominic Patten, Deadline, 2 July 2026 Cesar Peinate, a 59-year-old Venezuelan man, left his appointment on Thursday carrying his immigration paperwork and red passport in a clear folder. Vera Lucia Pappaterra, Miami Herald, 2 July 2026 For all the breathless coverage devoted to celebrity engagements, weddings, and whirlwind divorces, some of Hollywood’s most enduring love stories involve couples who never bothered with the paperwork. Declan Gallagher, Entertainment Weekly, 1 July 2026 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

Cite this Entry

“Paperwork.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/paperwork. Accessed 5 Jul. 2026.

Kids Definition

paperwork

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

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