Postmarking: meaning, definitions and examples

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postmarking

 

[ pəʊstˌmɑːrkɪŋ ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

mail service

Postmarking refers to the printing or stamping of a postal mark on a piece of mail. This stamp indicates the date and place from which the mail was sent. It serves as proof of mailing and can be essential for determining the timeline of delivery. Postmarks are also used by collectors and can add value to stamps or envelopes.

Synonyms

mail stamp, postal marking

Examples of usage

  • The postmark on the letter shows it was sent last week.
  • Collectors often seek rare postmarking from historical locations.
  • Each postmarked envelope tells a story of its journey.
  • The postmark indicates the item was posted from New York.

Translations

Translations of the word "postmarking" in other languages:

🇵🇹 carimbo postal

🇮🇳 पोस्टमार्किंग

🇩🇪 Poststempel

🇮🇩 cap pos

🇺🇦 поштова марка

🇵🇱 znak pocztowy

🇯🇵 郵便印

🇫🇷 cachet postal

🇪🇸 sello postal

🇹🇷 posta damgası

🇰🇷 우편 소인

🇸🇦 طابع بريد

🇨🇿 poštovní razítko

🇸🇰 poštová pečiatka

🇨🇳 邮戳

🇸🇮 poštni žig

🇮🇸 póststimpill

🇰🇿 пошта мөрі

🇬🇪 ფოსტური მარკირება

🇦🇿 poçt markası

🇲🇽 sello postal

Etymology

The term 'postmark' originates from the combination of 'post' (meaning mail or postal service) and 'mark' (meaning to stamp or denote something). The use of postmarks dates back to the early development of postal systems when it became necessary to authenticate and date sent items. As postal services expanded, postmarking became standardized, allowing for more efficient sorting and delivery of mail. Over the decades, the design and function of postmarks have evolved, reflecting advancements in technology and changes in postal regulations. Today, postmarks are not only functional but have also become a collectible aspect of philately, appealing to historians and stamp enthusiasts alike.