verb
abheften
file · file away
Definition & meaning
The verb abheften has two primary meanings:
- To file or archive: This refers to the act of organizing papers or documents by punching holes in them and securing them into a file folder (a ring binder or "Ordner"). It is a common administrative task used to keep records orderly.
- To detach or unclip: In some contexts, it can mean the opposite: removing documents from a file folder or a binding mechanism.
Grammar & Word origin
Grammar:
- Type: Weak verb (regular).
- Conjugation: heftete ab (simple past), abgeheftet (past participle).
- Separability: It is a separable verb (ab- + heften). In a main clause, the prefix ab- moves to the end of the sentence (e.g., "Ich hefte die Unterlagen ab.").
Word origin:
- ab-: A prefix indicating a movement away from something or the completion of an action.
- heften: Derived from the Middle High German heften, meaning to fasten, attach, or stitch.
Synonyms & antonyms
Synonyms:
- ablochen (to punch holes in paper for filing)
- einordnen (to file away in order)
- archivieren (to archive)
- ablegen (to file/put away)
Antonyms:
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Examples
Bitte hefte die Blätter ab.verb
Please file the sheets.
Hast du die alten Rechnungen schon abgeheftet?verb
Have you already filed away the old invoices?
Ich muss den Vertrag noch im Ordner abheften.verb
I still need to file the contract in the binder.
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