<P> `` File 13 '' is a euphemism for the trash can . The phrase is especially used in the U.S. military , and is less common outside of the United States . In the United Kingdom , for instance , the expression `` round file '' or `` circular file '' is more common ( in reference to trash cans typically being round ) . Many Unix - like operating systems have a similar reference known as / dev / null . Expressions such as `` I 'll place that memo in file 13 '' are often heard in offices as a joking way of saying , `` I 'm going to throw away that memo . '' </P>
<P> `` File 13 '' is a euphemism for the trash can . The phrase is especially used in the U.S. military , and is less common outside of the United States . In the United Kingdom , for instance , the expression `` round file '' or `` circular file '' is more common ( in reference to trash cans typically being round ) . Many Unix - like operating systems have a similar reference known as / dev / null . Expressions such as `` I 'll place that memo in file 13 '' are often heard in offices as a joking way of saying , `` I 'm going to throw away that memo . '' </P>
where did the phrase file 13 come from
where did the phrase file 13 come from
U.S. military
U.S. military