Meaning & Definition of word "Mailbox"

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    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.