Any file to which data iSSpooled to await the next Stage of proceSSing. ESpecially uSed in circumStanceS where Spooling the data copeS with a miSmatch between SpeedS in two deviceS or pieceS of Software. For example, when you Send mail under Unix, it' S typically copied to a Spool file to await a tranSport demon' S attentionS. [Jargon File]