Definition

1. Noun:
   • A postal code: A series of letters and/or numbers appended to a postal address to assist in the efficient sorting and delivery of mail. In the UK and some other countries, this is called a postcode. In the US, it is called a ZIP code.

Usage

• A postcode is a crucial part of a mailing address. It is used by postal services to identify a specific geographic area, such as a street, a group of houses, or a single large delivery point.
• It is typically written at the end of an address, on its own line or after the city/town name.
• Example: "Please ensure you include the correct postcode so your parcel arrives on time."

Examples

• Noun:
  • The letter was delayed because the postcode was illegible.
  • My postcode is SW1A 1AA, which is for Buckingham Palace in London.
  • You can find a business by entering its postcode into the online map.

Advanced Usage

• "To postcode" (verb, less common): The act of assigning a postcode to an address or area.
  • The new housing development has not yet been postcoded by the postal service.

Variants and Related Words

• ZIP code (noun): The system of postal codes used in the United States. (e.g., 90210)
• Postal code (noun): A general term synonymous with postcode, used internationally.
• Postcode lottery (noun - idiomatic): A phrase describing the situation where the services or opportunities available to people depend on the area where they live, as identified by their postcode.
  • Access to that specialist treatment is a postcode lottery.

Synonyms

• ZIP code (primarily US)
• Postal code
• Mail code

Related Phrases

• Within the postcode area: Located inside the geographic zone covered by a specific postcode.
  • We only deliver within the postcode area shown on our website.

Noun

1. a code of letters and digits added to a postal address to aid in the sorting of mail