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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

Police have also appealed to anyone who bought or shared the images to delete them immediately, warning that "there will be a digital paper trail".

From BBC • Apr. 10, 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

That way, if the item “ends up being stolen and the cops show up at your door, you have a paper trail showing you did your due diligence and are not liable,” Ross said.

From MarketWatch • Oct. 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