Meaning & Definition of word "Mailbox"

Mailbox

/ˈmeɪl.bɔːks/

noun:

  • 1. A box for receiving and collecting mail.
    • Example: She checked the mailbox every day to see if she had any letters.
  • 2. A public box for receiving outgoing mail, typically installed on the street.
    • Example: He dropped the letter in the mailbox on the corner of the street.
  • 3. A location on a computer where electronic messages are received.
    • Example: I have a new email in my inbox, which is just like a digital mailbox.

Etymology

The word 'mail' is derived from the Old French 'male', meaning 'bag'. The word 'box' is of Germanic origin.

Common Phrases and Expressions

check the mailbox:

To look in the mailbox to see if any mail has arrived.

in the mailbox:

Refers to mail that has been delivered or received.

mailbox money:

Income received from investments, often referred to as passive income.

Related Words

postal service:

An organization that provides mail delivery services.

letter:

A written message sent by mail.

parcel:

A package that is sent through the mail.

Slang Meanings of mailbox

Meaning: Spam folder

Example Sentence: I checked my mailbox, but most of the messages were in the spam folder.

Meaning: Digital inbox

Example Sentence: After a busy day, my mailbox was flooded with emails.