nonfolder

Nonfolder is a term that lacks a single, established definition in formal reference works. It is not a standard technical term and does not point to a specific protocol, specification, or widely recognized product. In informal use, "nonfolder" is often formed from the negation of "folder" (directory) and is used to denote items that do not function as folders within a file system.

In computing discussions, nonfolder may refer to objects that are not directories—most commonly regular files, symbolic links, device nodes, or other non-directory entries. Some writers use the term to contrast non-hierarchical concepts with traditional folder-based organization, while others employ it descriptively to label anything stored outside of a folder.

Beyond computing, "Nonfolder" occasionally appears as a proper noun—either as a brand name, a project title, or a fictional term in literature and media. In these contexts, its meaning is defined by the surrounding material rather than by a fixed technical definition.

Because the usage of nonfolder is sporadic and informal, readers should rely on context to interpret its meaning. When precision is required, terms such as file, folder, directory, link, or tag provide clearer references. Related concepts include folders or directories, regular files, symbolic links, and non-hierarchical organization approaches such as tagging and metadata-based navigation.