Mailbag Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
📬
mailbag
[ˈmeɪlˌbæɡ ]
Definition
postal container
A mailbag is a large bag or container that is used for carrying and transporting mail. It is often used by postal workers to collect and deliver letters, packages, and other forms of correspondence. Mailbags are designed to be durable and secure, ensuring that the contents are protected while in transit. They often feature a closure mechanism, such as a zipper or buckle, to keep the mail secure. Mailbags can come in various sizes and are typically made from robust materials to withstand wear and tear.
Synonyms
mail pouch, parcel bag, postbag.
Examples of usage
- The postal worker loaded the mailbag into the truck.
- She checked the mailbag for any packages.
- After the delivery, he returned the empty mailbag to the post office.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
History
- In ancient Rome, messages were carried in leather bags by messengers known as 'cursus publicus.'
- The US Postal Service created the iconic blue mailbag in the mid-20th century for better recognition and security.
Cultural References
- 'Mailbag' segments are popular in radio and TV shows, especially in advice and listener interaction formats.
- In comic strips and animations, characters often receive surprises and humorous items through their mailbags.
Technology
- With the rise of digital communication, the role of physical mailbags has diminished, but they still play a role in logistics.
- Some eCommerce companies have reimagined the mailbag for packaging, promoting eco-friendly designs to reduce waste.
Psychology
- Opening a mailbag can trigger excitement, as it often holds unexpected surprises or updates from loved ones.
- Receiving mail, especially handwritten letters, stimulates positive emotions and a sense of connection.
Origin of 'mailbag'
Main points about word origin
- The term 'mail' originates from the Old French word 'male,' meaning a bag or pouch.
- Originally, mail referred to a physical carrier service rather than just letters, before evolving into the modern sense.
The term 'mailbag' originates from the combination of 'mail,' which comes from the Old French word 'male,' meaning a bag or pouch, and 'bag,' which is derived from the Old English 'bagga.' The use of mailbags became prominent with the rise of postal services in the 18th and 19th centuries when reliable methods of communication became essential for governments and businesses. As the postal system evolved, so did the design and materials used in creating mailbags, incorporating stronger fabrics and secure closing mechanisms to protect the contents. Today, mailbags are a symbol of postal services worldwide and are used extensively in mail delivery systems.