Renaming files based on clipboard content refers to changing a file's name using text you've previously copied ("cut" or "copied") and stored in your computer's temporary memory area (the clipboard). This functionality typically isn't built directly into the main file explorer interfaces of major operating systems like Windows, macOS, or Linux, but relies on third-party tools or scripting. Instead of manually typing a new name, these tools allow you to paste the clipboard text directly into the filename field automatically.

Several utilities enable this functionality. Tools like PowerToys PowerRename for Windows offer dedicated interfaces where you select files and can paste the clipboard content as the new name base. Dedicated file renaming software (e.g., Bulk Rename Utility, Renamer) often include a "Paste" or "Clipboard" option within their rename rule sets. Developers and power users might write scripts (e.g., Python, AutoHotkey, AppleScript) that read the clipboard and rename files programmatically.

This method offers speed and accuracy, especially when renaming multiple files sequentially with distinct, pre-copied names. However, its main limitation is dependency on the clipboard state – accidentally overwriting the clipboard before renaming can lead to incorrect filenames. Reliability depends on the specific tool used. While convenient, this approach inherently carries the risk of unintended overwriting if the clipboard contains unexpected data when the rename command is issued.