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Philatelist Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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philatelist

[fษชหˆlรฆtฬฌ.ษ™l.ษชst ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

stamp collection

A philatelist is a person who collects and studies postage stamps. Philatelists often have a passion for history, culture, and art, as stamps can provide insights into these areas. They may focus on specific themes, time periods, or countries when building their collections.

Synonyms

stamp collector.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
philatelist

Best used in formal or academic contexts when referring to someone who studies or collects stamps. This word is often used to emphasize the hobby's seriousness or scholarly aspect.

  • The philatelist spent years studying the rare stamps from the 19th century.
  • During the conference, several prominent philatelists presented their latest research.
stamp collector

More suitable for casual or everyday conversation. It is a straightforward term that describes someone who collects stamps as a hobby.

  • My uncle is a stamp collector and has a huge collection at home.
  • Being a stamp collector, she loves finding new stamps to add to her album.

Examples of usage

  • Many philatelists attend stamp shows to buy, sell, and trade stamps with fellow collectors.
  • A true philatelist takes great care in preserving and organizing their stamp collection.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Historical Significance

  • Stamps have been used to reflect significant historical events, serving as miniature artworks that commemorate moments in time.
  • During the World Wars, stamps were often used as propaganda tools, carrying messages to support the war effort or boost morale.
  • The first official stamp in the world, the Penny Black, was issued in Britain in 1840, and its introduction revolutionized postal services.

Cultural Impact

  • In addition to collecting, philately has fostered international friendships and cultural exchanges among collectors worldwide.
  • Certain stamps have become coveted collectorโ€™s items and can be worth millions, highlighting the blend of art and investment.
  • Countries often release themed stamps to celebrate local culture, history, or achievements, elevating the importance of this hobby.

Science and Technology

  • Collecting stamps involves understanding their production processes, including printing techniques and security features.
  • With the rise of digital communication, many collectors are now exploring e-philately, engaging with stamps through online platforms and digital collections.
  • Innovative technologies, such as laser cutting, have also transformed stamp design, allowing for more intricate and colorful creations.

Psychology

  • Collecting stamps can provide a sense of achievement and satisfaction, as individuals build and complete their collections.
  • The act of organizing stamps triggers a positive psychological response, fostering mindfulness and focus.
  • Philately can be a social activity, promoting interactions and relationships among enthusiasts, which can help combat feelings of loneliness.

Origin of 'philatelist'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Greek words 'philos' (loving) and 'ateleia' (tax-free), meaning someone who loves tax-free letters, as stamps indicate paid postage.
  • First used in France in 1864, the term rapidly spread and became popular in many languages.
  • The earliest documented use of stamp collecting dates back to the 1840s, shortly after the introduction of the penny black stamp in the UK.

The term 'philatelist' was coined in the 1860s from the French word 'philatรฉlie,' which combines 'philo-' (loving) and 'atelie' (postage). The hobby of stamp collecting became popular in the mid-19th century, coinciding with the introduction of adhesive postage stamps. Today, philatelists continue to enjoy the rich history and cultural significance of stamps.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #40,085, this word is among the less frequently used terms in English. While interesting to know, it's not crucial for most English learners unless needed for specific purposes.