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Addressee: meaning, definitions and examples

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addressee

 

[ˌædrɪˈsiː ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

formal

A person to whom something is addressed or sent.

Synonyms

intended recipient, receiver, recipient.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
addressee

Use when referring to the person whose name is written on an envelope, package, or letter.

  • Please ensure the addressee's name and address are correct.
  • The letter was returned because the addressee had moved.
recipient

Commonly used in various contexts to describe someone who receives something, like an award, email, or gift. It is a more general term.

  • The scholarship recipient delivered a heartfelt speech.
  • Check that the recipient’s email address is correct.
receiver

Often used in telecommunications, shipping, or finance to describe the party who receives a message, package, or money.

  • The receiver of the wire transfer must confirm the transaction.
  • Ensure the receiver acknowledges receipt of the goods.
intended recipient

Used in formal or legal contexts to specify the person who is supposed to receive something, often when there is concern about the item being delivered correctly.

  • The intended recipient must sign for the package.
  • Sensitive information should only be shared with the intended recipient.

Examples of usage

  • The addressee of the letter was her best friend.
  • He made sure to write the correct address of the addressee on the package.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The term comes from the Latin word 'addresser', meaning 'to direct', which combines 'ad' (to) and 'regere' (to guide).
  • In English usage, it began appearing in the early 19th century, expanding communication language.
  • The change in spelling and pronunciation reflects the integration of the word into more formal contexts.

Communication

  • In formal communication, identifying the addressee correctly is crucial to ensure the message reaches the intended recipient.
  • The relationship between sender and addressee can influence how a message is constructed, changing tone and language.
  • In digital communication, the addressee often includes not just individuals but groups, requiring careful consideration of audience.

Literature

  • In poetry and storytelling, understanding who the addressee is can unlock layers of meaning in a text.
  • Authors often challenge traditional roles of addressees by directly engaging the reader, breaking the fourth wall.
  • The addressee’s identity can shape narrative dynamics, influencing character development and plot advancement.

Law and Ethics

  • In legal terms, addressee refers not only to individuals but also to organizations that can receive notices or documents.
  • Privacy considerations dictate how the identity of an addressee is protected, especially in sensitive legal matters.
  • Misidentifying an addressee can have legal ramifications, highlighting the importance of accuracy in documentation.

Technology

  • In email and messaging software, the addressee's address is essential for successful delivery of communications.
  • Artificial intelligence can now analyze patterns in how different addressees respond, improving targeted marketing.
  • Addressing in Internet protocols relies on an accurate identification of the addressee, ensuring data reaches the right destination.

Translations

Translations of the word "addressee" in other languages:

🇵🇹 destinatário

🇮🇳 प्राप्तकर्ता

🇩🇪 Empfänger

🇮🇩 penerima

🇺🇦 одержувач

🇵🇱 adresat

🇯🇵 受取人

🇫🇷 destinataire

🇪🇸 destinatario

🇹🇷 alıcı

🇰🇷 수신자

🇸🇦 المتلقي

🇨🇿 příjemce

🇸🇰 prijímateľ

🇨🇳 收件人

🇸🇮 prejemnik

🇮🇸 viðtakandi

🇰🇿 алушы

🇬🇪 მიმღები

🇦🇿 alıcı

🇲🇽 destinatario

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #17,554, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.