What does paper mean?
Paper is a thin material made from processed plant fibres and formed into sheets. The word also refers to the many written objects associated with it, including documents, reports, articles, newspapers, assignments, and banknotes. In everyday conversation, “on paper” describes something that exists in theory or in written form, whether or not it has been put into practice. As a verb, paper can mean covering a surface with wallpaper or paper, smoothing a surface, and, in the expression “paper over,” concealing a problem rather than resolving it. The word’s history is closely connected with the development of writing: it ultimately comes from Greek papyros, referring to a plant used in ancient Egypt to make a writing material, and from Latin papyrus, the material itself. Paper later became a generic term for thin writing surfaces made from processed fibres. Today it remains common in both literal descriptions of materials and figurative expressions about documents, administration, and unresolved difficulties.
A thin material made from cellulose fibres and formed into sheets for writing, printing, wrapping, decoration, or other uses; also a document, article, report, newspaper, assignment, or banknote.
"The committee asked for a short paper outlining the proposal."
In academic and professional contexts, “paper” often means a written article or report. “On paper” can mean merely in written or theoretical form.
To cover or decorate a surface with paper; to smooth or finish a surface; or, in the phrase “paper over,” to conceal or disguise a problem.
"The landlord papered over the cracks in the hallway."
The verb is relatively uncommon outside expressions such as “paper over” and “paper the walls.” It should not be confused with the adjective “papery,” meaning like or resembling paper.
The plural refers to multiple sheets or pieces of material, or to documents, articles, reports, or other written works. “Papers” can also mean a set of official documents.
"The meeting ended with several papers on the table."
The word “paper” preserves the history of writing itself: it comes through Greek papyros, the plant once used to make the first paper-like writing material.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of paper
The word entered Middle English in the form “papir,” borrowed through Anglo-French and Old French papier from Latin papyrus. Latin papyrus referred both to the plant and to the writing material made from it, and it in turn came from Greek papuros. The modern sense of a material made from processed fibres developed as papyrus-like paper production spread beyond the ancient Mediterranean.
Related word forms
How paper is actually used
The noun is broadly neutral in everyday use. In professional and academic contexts, “paper” commonly means a written article or report. The verb “paper” is less frequent in general use, while the phrase “paper over” can imply an inadequate concealment of a problem.