clipboard: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
MediumNeutral
Quick answer
What does “clipboard” mean?
A small board with a clip at the top for holding paper, used for writing on while standing or moving.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A small board with a clip at the top for holding paper, used for writing on while standing or moving.
A temporary storage area for data that is being copied or moved within a computer system.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant lexical differences. Both BrE and AmE use the word for both the physical object and computing concept.
Connotations
Neutral in both regions. The physical object may have slightly stronger associations with manual trades or outdoor work.
Frequency
The computing sense is likely more frequent in both regions due to widespread computer use.
Grammar
How to Use “clipboard” in a Sentence
N + of (a clipboard of papers)V + N (clear the clipboard)N + V (the clipboard holds)Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “clipboard” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- The app allows you to clipboard the text for later.
American English
- You can clipboard that image and paste it elsewhere.
adjective
British English
- He used a clipboard function to transfer the data.
American English
- Check the clipboard history in your settings.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Used for administrative tasks, site inspections, and data collection.
Academic
Rare in academic writing except in descriptions of methodology or computing studies.
Everyday
Common for shopping lists, DIY projects, or school activities.
Technical
A fundamental concept in computer science and user interface design.
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “clipboard”
- Using 'clipboard' to mean a folder or file (e.g., 'Save it to your clipboard').
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Not exactly. It is a specific, temporary area of memory reserved for holding data that has been cut or copied.
On most basic systems, no—it's invisible. However, many operating systems and third-party apps now offer 'clipboard managers' that let you view and access history.
No, 'clipboard' as a verb is a very recent and informal computing back-formation (e.g., 'clipboard that link'). It is not standard.
Until it is replaced by new copied/cut data, you clear it, or you shut down the computer (in most cases).
A small board with a clip at the top for holding paper, used for writing on while standing or moving.
Clipboard is usually neutral in register.
Clipboard: in British English it is pronounced /ˈklɪp.bɔːd/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈklɪp.bɔːrd/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “Clipboard warrior (derogatory: someone who criticises from a position of bureaucratic authority, often with a clipboard).”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of a CLIP that holds papers on a BOARD.
Conceptual Metaphor
INFORMATION IS A PHYSICAL OBJECT (that can be clipped, held, and moved).
Practice
Quiz
What is the primary function of a computer's clipboard?