Definition of xerox

Short definition: The word xerox means to make a copy of a paper or document using a copying machine. People often use it in offices, schools, and shops when they need extra copies quickly and easily.

Looking for a clear and natural explanation of the word xerox? The word xerox is interesting because it started as a brand name, but over time it became part of everyday language. Today, many people use it to talk about making copies, especially of documents and papers. In offices, schools, and homes, xerox often feels like a simple, practical word connected with work, study, and daily routines. Below, each meaning is explained in a relaxed and natural way, with explanations that feel human instead of stiff like a textbook.

Verb forms: xerox, xeroxes, xeroxing, xeroxed
Noun forms: xerox, xeroxes
Related: photocopy n., copy v.
Syllable: xe-rox

1. To make a copy of a document or paper.

   In everyday use, xerox means to make a photocopy. People often say they will “xerox” something even when they are using a machine from a different brand. It has become a casual way to talk about copying papers, especially in offices, schools, and libraries.

   She asked the assistant to xerox the contract so everyone in the meeting could have a copy.
   He went to the shop next door to xerox his passport before sending the application.
   The teacher told the students to xerox the notes for their classmates who were absent.

   Synonyms: photocopy, copy, duplicate, reproduce, make a copy of, print a copy, scan and copy, replicate, clone, reprint, copy out, make duplicates
   Antonyms: destroy, erase, delete, shred, remove, lose, discard, throw away, tear up, eliminate, wipe out, get rid of

2. A copy of a document made by a copying machine.

   As a noun, a xerox is the copy itself. People use it to refer to the paper they just duplicated, not the original version. In daily life, this meaning feels very practical, especially when sharing information quickly.

   She handed him a xerox of the receipt, just in case he needed it later.
   The office keeps a xerox of every form for record-keeping.
   He asked for a xerox of the report before the meeting started.

   Synonyms: photocopy, duplicate, copy, printout, paper copy, reproduced version, backup copy, extra copy, second copy, document copy, replica, duplicate sheet
   Antonyms: original, master copy, first version, source document, main file, primary paper, original sheet, base document, master file, source copy, original version, main document

3. To copy someone or something in an unoriginal way.

   In a more informal sense, xerox can also mean copying ideas, styles, or behavior. When used this way, it sometimes sounds negative, suggesting a lack of creativity or originality.

   People say he just xeroxed his brother’s style, instead of finding his own way.
   The design felt like it was xeroxed from an older product.
   She didn’t want to xerox other artists, but hoped to develop her own voice.

   Synonyms: imitate, copy, mimic, replicate, follow blindly, mirror, duplicate style, clone ideas, reproduce behavior, echo, repeat, borrow heavily
   Antonyms: create, invent, innovate, design originally, be unique, lead, start fresh, originate, think differently, stand out, be original, break the mold

4. A word closely connected with office life.

   For many people, xerox represents daily office routines. It reminds them of paperwork, meetings, and the simple tasks that keep everything running smoothly. In this sense, the word feels familiar and practical.

   She spent the morning xeroxing documents for the afternoon presentation.
   The sound of the xerox machine filled the quiet office.
   His first job included a lot of xerox work, but it helped him learn the basics of office life.

   Synonyms: office task, paperwork duty, copying work, admin job, routine task, clerical work, support duty, document handling, office chore, daily task, work routine, admin role
   Antonyms: creative work, leadership role, strategic task, design work, innovation duty, planning job, decision-making role, management task, high-level work, creative role, visionary work, executive duty

5. A brand name that became part of everyday language.

   Xerox is also a famous company name, and it is one of the best examples of a brand that turned into a common word. Over time, people started using it even when they were not using Xerox machines at all.

   Even though the copier wasn’t a Xerox machine, everyone still said they were going to xerox the files.
   It’s funny how some brand names, like xerox, become everyday verbs.
   He learned in marketing class how xerox became a common word.

   Synonyms: brand word, commonized trademark, everyday term, popular brand name, generic brand, household name, famous label, well-known name, iconic brand, language icon, common term, popular word
   Antonyms: unknown brand, rare term, obscure name, unfamiliar label, private brand, niche name, unheard-of term, little-known brand, forgotten name, uncommon word, rare label, unknown term