Letterbox: meaning, definitions and examples
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letterbox
[ ˈlɛtərˌbɒks ]
mail delivery
A letterbox is a receptacle for receiving incoming mail. It is typically located outside a residence or business for postal services to deposit letters and packages. Letterboxes can vary in design and size, with some being decorative and collectible.
Synonyms
letter receptacle, mailbox, postbox.
Examples of usage
- I checked the letterbox for any new mail.
- The letterbox was overflowing with letters after the holidays.
- He decorated his letterbox with colorful paint.
- She placed a sign near the letterbox to announce a parcel delivery.
Translations
Translations of the word "letterbox" in other languages:
🇵🇹 caixa de correio
🇮🇳 पत्रिका बॉक्स
🇩🇪 Briefkasten
🇮🇩 kotak surat
🇺🇦 поштовий ящик
🇵🇱 skrzynka pocztowa
🇯🇵 郵便受け
🇫🇷 boîte aux lettres
🇪🇸 buzón
🇹🇷 posta kutusu
🇰🇷 우편함
🇸🇦 صندوق البريد
🇨🇿 poštovní schránka
🇸🇰 poštová schránka
🇨🇳 信箱
🇸🇮 poštni nabiralnik
🇮🇸 póstkassi
🇰🇿 пошталық жәшік
🇬🇪 საბადურის ყუთი
🇦🇿 poçt qutusu
🇲🇽 buzón
Etymology
The term 'letterbox' originates from the combination of two English words: 'letter,' which has been in use since the Middle Ages from Old French 'lettre', and 'box', derived from Old English 'box' denoting a container. Historically, the concept of letter receptacles can be traced back to the Roman Empire when they established postal systems, and 'boxes' were used to collect and protect correspondence. The modern letterbox design began to become commonplace in the 19th century with the advent of organized postal services, especially in countries like England and the United States. The term gained further traction as the importance of postal communication grew, reflecting the increasing need for secure and convenient mail delivery options for households and businesses.