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paper trail
noun
: documents (such as financial records) from which a person's actions may be traced or opinions learned
Examples of paper trail in a Sentence
They covered up the fraud and were careful not to leave a paper trail.
Recent Examples on the Web
Look for a direct paper trail that starts with the automaker and ends with the current owner, and ideally includes the original window sticker, sales contract, the owner’s manual and other paperwork that came with the car, along with copies of titles and bills of sale.
—Jim Gorzelany, Forbes, 9 Dec. 2024
Additionally, audit logs and communication records help create a consistent paper trail, which is critical for regulatory reviews and minimizing risks associated with non-compliance.
—Rishi Choudhary, Forbes, 25 Nov. 2024
The paper trail is your best defense in case of disputes later on.
—Kirby Adams, The Courier-Journal, 22 Nov. 2024
Many in the public were distrustful of the touch-screen devices, which didn’t produce a paper trail allowing people to know for sure if their votes were being recorded as intended.
—Anthony Man, Sun Sentinel, 1 Oct. 2024
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Word History
First Known Use
1935, in the meaning defined above
Dictionary Entries Near paper trail
Cite this Entry
“Paper trail.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/paper%20trail. Accessed 15 Jan. 2025.
Kids Definition
paper trail
noun
: documents (as financial records or published materials) from which a person's actions may be traced or opinions learned
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