MAILBOX Definition & Meaning

View synonyms for

mailbox

[ meyl-boks ]

Phonetic (Standard)IPA

noun

a public box in which mail is placed for pickup and delivery by the post office.
a private box, as at a home, into which mail is delivered by the mail carrier.
Computers. a file for storing electronic mail.

mailbox

/ ˈ��ɪ��ˌ��ɒ�� /

noun

1. a slot, usually covered with a hinged flap, through which letters, etc are delivered to a building
2. a private box into which letters, etc, are delivered Also called (in Britain and certain other countries)letter box
a public box into which letters, etc, are put for collection and delivery Also called (in Britain and certain other countries)postbox
(on a computer) the directory in which e-mail messages are stored; also used of the icon that can be clicked to provide access to e-mails

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�y��vlog History and Origins

Origin of mailbox¹

First recorded in 1800–10; mail ¹ + box ¹

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Example Sentences

Examples have not been reviewed.

While grocers still distribute coupons through mailboxes or as inserts in a newspaper, the deals have evolved to meet consumers on their smartphones through mobile apps and email inboxes.

From

A month later, it appeared in my mailbox without a note or explanation — just proof someone cared enough to return it.

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The Searle couple retired to this region five years ago, and other mailboxes in the hamlet indicate they are not the only expatriates in the region.

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But I can recall the ecstatic joy of going to the mailbox with my mother — or on her orders — because there was almost always a letter from someone.

From

Friends knew their old neighbor was home, still corresponding, because the flag on her mailbox seemed always to be standing at attention.

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