out-basket
Definition
Noun: A tray or container, typically found on an office desk, designated for holding documents, letters, or other materials that are ready to be sent out, distributed, or processed further by someone else.
Usage
The "out-basket" is used to organize outgoing physical paperwork. It is the counterpart to an "in-basket" (or "in-tray"), which holds incoming items. Its primary function is to streamline workflow by providing a designated place for completed work that needs to leave one's desk.
Examples
- Please file this report and put the copies in the out-basket for inter-office mail.
- Her out-basket was overflowing with signed letters ready to be mailed.
- Before leaving, he checked his out-basket to ensure all the day's correspondence was ready for pickup.
Advanced Usage
- Conceptual Use: In modern digital workplaces, the term can be used metaphorically to refer to an email "Outbox" or a digital folder for completed tasks awaiting the next step.
- Think of your project folder as a digital out-basket; once you finalize the graphics, move them there for the web team.
Variants and Related Words
- Out-tray: A direct synonym, more commonly used in British English.
- In-basket / In-tray: The opposite receptacle for incoming items.
- Outbox: The digital equivalent in email systems.
Synonyms
- Out-tray
- Outgoing tray
Antonyms
- In-basket
- In-tray
- Inbox
Noun
-
a wood or metal receptacle placed on your desk to hold your outgoing material
