Definition

1. Noun:
   • A system for sending and receiving messages electronically over a computer network: "Electronic mail" refers to the global digital communication system where a user writes a message on one computer, which is then transmitted and can be retrieved by the recipient on their computer.
   • A message sent via this system: "Electronic mail" can also refer to an individual message transmitted through this digital communication system.

Usage Examples

• Noun (System):
  • Most business communication is now conducted via electronic mail.
  • The invention of electronic mail revolutionized how we correspond.
• Noun (Individual Message):
  • I received an important electronic mail from the director this morning.
  • Please send the report as an electronic mail.

Advanced Usage

• "store-and-forward" nature: A key technical characteristic of electronic mail is that messages are stored on a server until the recipient retrieves them.
  • The reliability of electronic mail relies on its store-and-forward design.
• Formal vs. Informal Context: The term "electronic mail" is often used in formal, technical, or legal contexts, while the shortened form "email" is standard in everyday usage.
  • The policy document specified the use of encrypted electronic mail for sensitive data.

Variants and Related Words

• Email (n., v.): The common abbreviated form of "electronic mail." It can be a noun (I got your email) or a verb (Email me the details).
• E-mail: An alternative spelling for the abbreviation.
• Mailer (n.): A program used to send and receive electronic mail.
• Mailing list (n.): A list of email addresses used to distribute electronic mail to a group of subscribers.

Synonyms

• Email: The direct and most common synonym.
• Digital correspondence: Refers to written communication in digital form.

Related Phrases

• To send an electronic mail: To transmit a message via this system.
  • He will send an electronic mail to confirm the appointment.
• Electronic mail address: The unique identifier for sending and receiving electronic mail (e.g., [e-mail]).
  • Please provide your electronic mail address for the mailing list.

Notes on Usage

• The term "electronic mail" is the full, formal name for the system and concept. In contemporary English, the abbreviated form "email" (or "e-mail") is overwhelmingly preferred in both speech and writing for all definitions.
• The example from the reference context, "you cannot send packages by electronic mail," highlights a key distinction: electronic mail is for digital messages, not physical goods.

Noun

1. (computer science) a system of world-wide electronic communication in which a computer user can compose a message at one terminal that can be regenerated at the recipient's terminal when the recipient logs in
   • you cannot send packages by electronic mail