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Philately Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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philately

[fษชหˆlรฆt.ษ™l.i ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

hobby, collecting

Philately is the collection and study of postage stamps, postal history, and related items. It is not just about the gathering of stamps but also involves the understanding of their historical significance and the intricate details associated with them. Enthusiasts often engage in this hobby to appreciate the art, culture, and history reflected in the stamps. Philatelists regularly attend exhibitions and swap meets to trade and showcase their collections.

Synonyms

postal history collection, stamp collecting.

Examples of usage

  • She developed a passion for philately after inheriting her grandfather's stamp collection.
  • The philately club organized a meeting to discuss rare stamps.
  • Philately not only involves collecting but also researching the stories behind the stamps.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

History

  • The world's first adhesive postage stamp, the Penny Black, was issued in the UK in 1840 and is a cornerstone of modern philately.
  • During the Great Depression, stamp collecting became a popular hobby as it was an inexpensive form of entertainment.

Cultural Significance

  • Philately can reflect historical events, culture, and art through the imagery used on stamps, often celebrating important milestones.
  • Countries produce commemorative stamps to honor significant figures or occasions, thus promoting national identity and pride.

Science

  • Philately has been used in research, such as studying postal routes, which can provide insights into historical communication networks.
  • The preservation techniques used in stamp collecting share practices with museum conservation, highlighting the importance of maintaining history.

Pop Culture

  • Philately has inspired popular literature and media, with characters often using stamp collecting to connect with their past or to form friendships.
  • Adventures in stamp collecting are explored in various films, showing the hobby as a way to explore diverse cultures across the world.

Origin of 'philately'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'philately' comes from the French 'philatรฉlie,' which combines 'philos' (loving) and 'atelia' (tax-exempt items).
  • It was first used in the 1860s when enthusiasts began focusing on collecting stamps rather than just using them.

The term 'philately' derives from the French word 'philatรฉlie,' which was coined in the 19th century. The root 'philo-' comes from the Greek word 'philos,' meaning 'loving,' and 'ateleia,' which means 'exemption from tax.' This reflects the initial essence of stamp collecting as a hobby that was a tax-exempt activity. The emergence of philately began shortly after the issuance of the first postage stamp, the Penny Black, in 1840. As people began to recognize the artistic and historical value of stamps, the hobby gained popularity across Europe and then the world. Over the years, philately has evolved into a respected field of study, with specialists examining stamps not just as collectibles but as artifacts that provide insight into various eras and cultures.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #37,488, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.