- paper
- 1341, from Anglo-Fr. paper, from O.Fr. papier, from L. papyrus "paper, paper made of papyrus stalks" (see papyrus). As shortened form of newspaper, first attested 1642. In plural, "collection of papers to establish one's identity, credentials, etc.," it is attested from 1685. The verb meaning "to decorate a room with paper hangings" is attested from 1774. Paperback is from 1899. Paperless is attested from 1971. Paper chase is British slang from 1932. Paper tiger (1952) translates Chinese tsuh lao fu, popularized by Mao Zedong.