postal code
Definition
Noun: A series of letters, numbers, or both, assigned to a specific geographic area or address to facilitate the efficient sorting and delivery of mail by a postal service.
Usage
A postal code is a key part of a mailing address. It is used by postal services to automate and streamline the process of routing mail to its correct destination. It is typically written at the end of an address.
Examples
- Please ensure you include the correct postal code on all your correspondence.
- The package was delayed because the sender wrote the wrong postal code.
- You can find your postal code on the postal service's website.
Advanced Usage
- ZIP Code: In the United States, the specific term for a postal code is a "ZIP Code," which stands for Zone Improvement Plan Code.
- Postcode: This is a common term for a postal code, especially in the United Kingdom and other Commonwealth countries.
Variants and Related Words
- ZIP Code (n): The United States Postal Service's system of postal codes.
- Postcode (n): A variant term for postal code, common in British English.
- ZIP+4 (n): An extended form of the US ZIP Code, providing more precise location data.
Synonyms
- ZIP code (US-specific)
- Postcode (UK/commonwealth)
- Mail code
Related Phrases
- Area code: While this term specifically refers to the numerical prefix for telephone numbers, it is sometimes confused with postal code by language learners. They are completely different identifiers.
Noun
-
a code of letters and digits added to a postal address to aid in the sorting of mail
