postcode

[pohst-kohd]

noun

British.

1. an official code used by the post office, similar to the U.S. zip code, that adds numbers and letters to addresses to expedite mail delivery.

postcode

/ ˈpəʊstˌkəʊd /

noun

1. Also called: postal code. US equivalent: zip code. a code of letters and digits used as part of a postal address to aid the sorting of mail

Word History and Origins

Origin of postcode¹

First recorded in 1965–70; post ³ + code

Example Sentences

He was one of eight people from a neighbourhood in Kingswood near Bristol to win the October draw as part of the subscription lottery where winners in the same postcode share the prize money.

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He says he won "the postcode lottery of birth" being born in the north west of England into a loving family and being sent to a good school.

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"However, for those who need it, access to specialist psychological treatment from trained mental health professionals is a postcode lottery, with many who need help going unsupported."

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Senior doctors have warned there is severe inequality within London for weight loss drugs so patients are facing a postcode lottery trying to access them.

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It says the situation is leading to an unacceptable postcode lottery with some cutting-edge treatments only available in the larger, better-funded units.

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