postal
Postal (adj) means having to do with the mail system — collecting, sorting, and delivering letters and parcels. Example: “You can check delivery times on the postal service's website.”
How to use postal
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishRelating to the mail system — or, informally, snapping with rage.
The 'go postal' meaning is slang and comes from a string of 1980s-90s workplace incidents involving postal workers; use it carefully as it references real violence.
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
You can check delivery times on the _____ service's website.
Etymology
From post (mail) plus -al, shaped on the same pattern as the French word postal.
Rhymes for postal
See all rhymes for postal →Frequently asked questions
What does “postal” mean?
The word “postal” means having to do with the mail system — collecting, sorting, and delivering letters and parcels. In plain terms, relating to the mail system — or, informally, snapping with rage.
How do you pronounce “postal”?
“Postal” is pronounced POHSTL ([ˈpoʊstl̩] in IPA).
How do you use “postal” in a sentence?
Here is “postal” used in a sentence: “You can check delivery times on the postal service's website.”
What part of speech is “postal”?
“Postal” is an adjective.
Where does the word “postal” come from?
The word “postal” comes from French. From post (mail) plus -al, shaped on the same pattern as the French word postal.
Is “postal” a common word?
“Postal” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.
How many meanings does “postal” have?
“Postal” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: having to do with the mail system — collecting, sorting, and delivering letters and parcels.
What is the difference between 'postal' and 'postage'?
'Postal' is an adjective describing anything related to the mail system, such as postal workers or postal services. 'Postage' is a noun referring specifically to the cost of sending mail, usually paid through stamps.
What is the difference between a postal code and a zip code?
Both identify a delivery area used to sort and route mail, but the terms differ by country. 'Postal code' is the general and British term, while 'zip code' is the specific name used in the United States.
What is the difference between 'postal' and 'mail'?
'Postal' is usually an adjective describing the mail system, as in the postal service. 'Mail' can be a noun for the letters and parcels themselves or a verb meaning to send them, so 'postal' describes the system while 'mail' is often the thing being sent.