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Definitions

paper trail

NOUN
proof
Synonyms
STRONGEST
argument clue confirmation criterion data demonstration information picture reason testament testimony validation verification
STRONG
affidavit attestation averment case certification clincher corroboration credentials cue deposition documents establishment exhibit facts goods grabber grounds nitty-gritty reasons record scoop score skinny substantiation trace warrant wherefore why witness
WEAK
chapter and verse lowdown smoking gun straight stuff whyfor
Antonyms
WEAK
hypothesis theory
NOUN
record
Synonyms
STRONGEST
document evidence file history note report story testimony transcript
STRONG
almanac annals archive archives chronicle diary directory documentation entry inscription jacket journal legend log manuscript memo memoir memorandum memorial minutes monument register registry remembrance script scroll trace transcription witness writing
WEAK
comic book swindle sheet track record written material
Antonyms
WEAK
loss

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

For one, he doesn’t have the provocative paper trail that Dhillon has.

From Salon • Apr. 12, 2026

There is, of course, a rich paper trail, and the author made avid use of the Sanders mayoral archives at the University of Vermont.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 29, 2026

With no paper trail from a hospital birth, none of the trio will ever be able to trace their mother.

From Barron's • Jan. 14, 2026

"We needed to create a paper trail so he could find his way back to us," Johanne says.

From BBC • Nov. 21, 2025

It sounded like Jesse didn’t have much of a paper trail to bring to the admissions committee, however.

From "Geeks: How Two Lost Boys Rode the Internet Out of Idaho" by Jon Katz