Email Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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[ˈiːmeɪl ]
Definition
communication
An electronic message sent over a computer network, typically consisting of text, images, or files.
Synonyms
correspondence, electronic mail, message.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
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Commonly used for all types of electronic mail communication, both formal and informal settings.
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| electronic mail |
More formal term for email, often used in official documents or technical contexts.
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| message |
General term that can refer to any kind of communication, including text messages, social media messages, and emails.
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| correspondence |
Used in more formal settings, often referring to a series of communications, not just one message.
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Examples of usage
- I received an email from my boss this morning.
- Please send me an email with the details.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Historical Origins
- The concept of electronic mail dates back to the 1960s, when early computers could share messages with each other.
- Ray Tomlinson sent the first email in 1971, choosing the '@' symbol to separate usernames from computer names.
- Initially, communications were limited within networks, but soon emails began to traverse wider internet connections.
Technology
- Email protocols like SMTP (Simple Mail Transfer Protocol) and POP3 (Post Office Protocol) are fundamental for how emails are sent and received.
- Spam filters and encryption have become crucial for managing unwanted emails and ensuring the safety of message contents.
- The advent of smartphones has transformed email usage, making it possible to send and receive messages on the go.
Cultural Impact
- Email has revolutionized business communication, allowing quick exchanges that were impossible with traditional mail.
- In the early 2000s, email emerged as a primary tool for marketing, with newsletters and promotional messages becoming commonplace.
- It has also impacted personal relationships, facilitating long-distance communication and making it easier to keep in touch.
Science
- Studies show that the average office worker receives around 120 emails a day, influencing productivity and work culture.
- The use of email has been linked to significant increases in multitasking, which can sometimes lead to stress for individuals.
- Email readability and response rates are often influenced by the subject line and timing of the messages sent.
Literature
- Email has been featured as a pivotal plot device in numerous novels and films, showcasing its role in contemporary storytelling.
- Authors have used email formats to create unique narratives, blurring the line between traditional storytelling and digital communication.
- Fictional characters often express their thoughts and feelings through emails, allowing for deeper insights into their personalities.
Origin of 'email'
The term 'email' is a shortening of electronic mail, which began in the 1960s as a way to send messages between users on the same computer. With the advent of the internet, email became a widely used form of communication, revolutionizing the way people interacted online.