Mailbox Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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mailbox
[ˈmeɪlˌbɑːks ]
Definition
letter delivery
A mailbox is a receptacle for receiving incoming mail. It is typically found at the end of a driveway or near the front of a house. In some jurisdictions, mailboxes are used for outgoing mail as well. Many communities have designated mailboxes for apartment complexes or clusters of houses. Mailboxes can come in various designs and styles, often reflecting the owner's personal taste.
Synonyms
letterbox, mail slot, postbox.
Examples of usage
- I checked the mailbox for my letters.
- The mailbox is full of advertisements.
- Please don't forget to put the outgoing mail in the mailbox.
- He painted his mailbox bright red.
- The postman delivered the package to my mailbox.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Historical Origins
- The postal system, which includes mailboxes, dates back to ancient Egypt when messages were delivered by runners.
- In the 19th century, the introduction of red mailboxes in the U.K. helped standardize mail collection.
- The first official post office in the United States was established in 1775, leading to the creation of mailboxes for public use.
Cultural Significance
- Mailboxes are often depicted in movies as places of significant moments, such as receiving love letters or important news.
- In the U.S., personal mailboxes are a common sight and can reflect individuality through decorations and designs.
- Global variations exist, such as Japan's unique decorative postboxes that attract tourists.
Technology
- The advent of email has transformed traditional mailboxes, leading to the rise of virtual mailboxes.
- Smart mailboxes with lockable features and notification systems have been developed to secure deliveries.
- Some modern mail services even use drones to deliver packages directly to a mailbox.
Psychology
- Receiving mail can trigger feelings of anticipation and excitement, showcasing the emotional connection we have with communication.
- Mailboxes symbolize a connection to loved ones, often evoking nostalgia for handwritten letters.
- The act of sending and receiving mail has been shown to enhance social bonds and foster community.
Literature
- Mailboxes appear in various novels and stories, representing hope and connection, such as in 'P.S. I Love You'.
- In children's literature, mailboxes can be magical places where wishes or messages are sent to special characters.
- Poets often reference mail and mailboxes as symbols of longing and unfulfilled desires.
Origin of 'mailbox'
The word 'mailbox' originated in the early 19th century, from the combination of the word 'mail', which comes from the Old French 'male' meaning 'bag' or 'pouch', and 'box', which derives from the Latin 'buxus' referring to the boxwood tree. 'Mail' was used to describe letters and parcels sent via postal services, while 'box' indicates a container or receptacle. The use of mailboxes became more common with the advent of established postal systems, especially in the United States, where individual mailboxes were introduced to facilitate the efficient delivery of letters directly to homes. Over time, mailboxes have evolved in shape, size, and function, reflecting technological advancements and changes in communication methods.