certified mail

American  

noun

1. uninsured first-class mail requiring proof of delivery.

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Etymology

Origin of certified mail

First recorded in 1950–55

Example Sentences

If you file on paper, you should ask for a postmark at the post-office counter or choose certified mail with a return receipt.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 26, 2026

If you must mail an important or large payment, it might be wise to pay for tracking — certified mail, for example, or a signature confirmation upon delivery — as a safeguard.

From New York Times • Jan. 7, 2024

Also increasing would be the cost of domestic and international postcards, one-ounce international letters, certified mail, post office box rentals, money order fees and mailing insurance.

From Washington Times • Apr. 10, 2023

At times, he said, the correspondence was sent by certified mail and the IRS still cannot locate it.

From Seattle Times • Jul. 16, 2021

If you want to know the date that the Copyright Office receives your material, send it by registered or certified mail and request a return receipt.

From Copyright Basics by Library of Congress. Copyright Office