Attachment
uh-TATCH-munt
/əˈtætʃ.mənt/
A computer file appended to an email message, or an emotional bond/fastening device.
In digital communication, it specifically denotes an independent file (document, image, PDF) transmitted alongside an email message.
The story behind the word. Long before software engineers built email clients, French carpenters used atachier—literally pinning something down with a small wooden stake or tack (estache). When early email protocols allowed files to 'tack on' to text messages, the word leapt into computer software.
Word relationships
- enclosure: 'Enclosure' traditionally refers to paper documents placed inside a physical envelope, while 'attachment' is used for digital files.
- appendice: 'Appendix' or 'appendice' refers to supplementary text at the end of a book or report, not a separate digital file.
- detachment: 'Detachment' refers to the state of being separated or disconnected.
Commonly confused with
- attaintment: 'Attaintment' relates to dishonor or legal forfeiture, whereas 'attachment' is something joined or connected.
Word family
- attach (verb): To join, fasten, or link one thing to another.
- attached (adjective): Connected or bound by emotional or physical ties.
Collocations
- email attachment
- file attachment
- download the attachment
- open an attachment
Idioms & expressions
- no strings attached
Example sentences
- "Please find the quarterly financial report in the file attachment provided with this email." Professional document delivery
- "I forgot to include the attachment, so I am sending a follow-up email right away." Everyday communication error
Memory hook
ATTACHment = TACKing an extra file onto your digital letter. Tacked onto your message.
When not to use
Avoid using 'attachment' to refer to hyperlinked web pages inside the body text.
Fun facts
- The paperclip icon used globally for email attachments was popularized in early software design and remains an iconic symbol of digital correspondence.
Related words
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