Definition

Noun: A machine, specifically a type of printer, designed to automatically print addresses onto envelopes, letters, or other mail pieces for the purpose of mailing.

Usage

The term "addressograph" refers to a specific piece of office equipment, now largely historical, used for mass mailings. It is used as a standard noun.

Examples

• The company used an addressograph to handle the monthly newsletter mailing.
• Before digital mail merge, offices relied on an addressograph for printing addresses.
• The museum has an antique addressograph in its collection of vintage office machines.

Advanced Usage

• The term can be used metonymically to refer to the process or department handling mass mailings in a traditional office setting.
  • All subscription renewals were processed through the addressograph.

Variants and Related Words

• Addressograph was also a trademark (Addressograph®) for a brand of such machines, sometimes leading to generic use of the term.
• Address plate: The metal or plastic plate embossed with an address, used in an addressograph machine.

Synonyms

• Address printer
• Mailing machine
• Embosser (specifically for machines using embossed plates)

Different Meanings

As a noun, "addressograph" has only this specific, technical meaning related to mailing equipment. It does not have other common definitions.

Notes

This word is considered dated, as the technology has been superseded by computer printers and mail-merge software. It primarily appears in historical or descriptive contexts.

Noun

1. a printer that automatically prints addresses on letters for mailing