Definition

Noun: A franking machine is a device that automatically imprints a postal mark or indicia onto letters or packages, simultaneously calculating and recording the total postage cost. It is used by businesses and organizations to streamline bulk mailing.

Usage

A franking machine is used to apply postage directly onto mail items, eliminating the need for adhesive stamps. The machine typically prints a dated mark that includes the postage amount and often a company logo or permit number.

Examples

• Noun:
  • The office uses a franking machine to process hundreds of letters each day.
  • Before sending the parcels, ensure the franking machine has sufficient credit.

Advanced Usage

• "To frank mail": The action of using a franking machine to apply postage.
  • Her job is to frank all the outgoing correspondence.

Variants and Related Words

• Frank (verb): To stamp a letter or package with an official mark indicating postage has been paid.
• Postage meter: A synonym for a franking machine, commonly used in American English.
• Indicia (noun, plural): The printed marking left by a franking machine, serving as evidence of prepaid postage.

Synonyms

• Postage meter
• Mailing machine

Related Phrases

• Pre-franked mail: Mail that has already passed through a franking machine.
  • The pre-franked envelopes were ready for collection by the postal service.

Noun

1. a machine that automatically stamps letters or packages passing through it and computes the total charge