Definition

1. Noun:
   • A numbered compartment in a post office where mail is put to be called for: A "PO Box" is a secure, individually numbered mailbox located within a post office. Mail is delivered to this box and can be collected by the renter using a key or combination.

Usage

• A "PO Box" is used as a mailing address, often for privacy, security, or when a physical street address is not suitable or available.
• It is typically written as "P.O. Box" or "PO Box" followed by the box number.
• It is rented for a fee from a postal service.

Examples

• Noun:
  • Please send the package to my PO Box.
  • Our business uses a PO Box for customer correspondence.
  • The address is P.O. Box 123, Anytown, USA.

Advanced Usage

• "Hold mail at the PO Box": A service where mail is kept securely at the post office for collection.
  • While I'm traveling, I'll have my mail held at my PO Box.
• "PO Box-only delivery": A restriction where certain items or services can only be delivered to a post office box address.
  • Some government agencies require a PO Box-only address for official documents.

Variants and Related Words

• Post Office Box (n): The full form of "PO Box".
  • He rented a post office box for his new venture.
• Private Mailbox (PMB) (n): A similar service often offered by private commercial mail receiving agencies, not the government postal service.
  • The shipping store offers private mailbox rentals.

Synonyms

• Mailbox (at a post office): A general term for a box where mail is received, though not specific to a post office.
• Lockbox: A secure box for receiving items, often used in financial contexts but can be similar in function.

Related Phrases

• "General Delivery": An alternative postal service where mail is held at a post office for pickup without renting a specific box, often for transient recipients.
  • When hiking the long trail, he received letters via General Delivery at town post offices.

Noun

1. a numbered compartment in a post office where mail is put to be called for