document
DOK-yoo-ment
ˈdɒkjʊmənt
To record something in written, photographic, or other form; a piece of written or printed matter.
As a verb, it implies creating a factual, objective record of events or evidence.
The story behind the word. From the Latin 'documentum', which meant a 'lesson' or 'proof', derived from 'docere' (to teach). A document was originally something you used to teach or prove a point.
Word relationships
- record: Record is broader; document often implies providing evidence or proof.
- register: Register usually implies entering information into an official list.
- ignore: To fail to record or notice something.
Commonly confused with
- chronicle: To document is to record facts; to chronicle is to tell the story of events in order.
Word family
- documentation (noun): Material that provides official information or evidence.
- documentary (noun): A film or program providing a factual record.
Collocations
- document a process
- supporting documents
- well-documented
Example sentences
- "The photographer traveled to the front lines to document the effects of the war." Journalism
- "You must document all your business expenses if you want to be reimbursed." Legal
Memory hook
A document 'docs' (docks) the facts in a safe place. Prove it with paper.
When not to use
Don't use 'document' when you just mean 'write down' a casual note; it usually implies a more formal or permanent record.
Fun facts
- The world's oldest surviving document on paper is a Chinese military letter from the 2nd century.
Explore more words
transcribe, archive, scribe, transcript, manuscript, substantiate
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