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• zip code
  zip code

  noun

  a system used in the U.S. to facilitate the delivery of mail, consisting of a five- or nine-digit code printed directly after the address, the first five digits initial code indicating the state and post office or postal zone, the last four expanded code the box section or number, portion of a rural route, building, or other specific delivery location.
• zip-code
  zip-code

  verb (used with object)

  to provide or mark with a zip code.

zip code

¹ American  

Or ZIP code,

noun

1. a system used in the U.S. to facilitate the delivery of mail, consisting of a five- or nine-digit code printed directly after the address, the first five digits initial code indicating the state and post office or postal zone, the last four expanded code the box section or number, portion of a rural route, building, or other specific delivery location.

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zip-code ² American  

[zip-kohd] / ˈzɪpˌkoʊd /

Or ZIP-code,

verb (used with object)

zip-coded, zip-coding

1. to provide or mark with a zip code.

   Zip-code all mail.

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zip code British  

noun

1. the US equivalent of postcode

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Etymology

Origin of zip code

An Americanism first recorded in 1960–65, Z(one) I(mprovement) P(rogram)

Example Sentences

Fans need a Philadelphia ZIP Code to buy tickets to the Sixers-Knicks playoff series in Philly this weekend.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 9, 2026

The hottest number in New York this week is a Philadelphia-area ZIP Code.

From MarketWatch • May 8, 2026

The call center typically will retain the golfer’s name, location, email address, cellphone, ZIP Code, payment method, tee-time preferences and history of previous bookings.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 10, 2026

That production, directed by Julia Rodriguez-Elliott, seems completely deracinated on a set by Frederica Nascimento that registers no Brooklyn ZIP Code or locatable address anywhere.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 1, 2026

Buyers and lenders need quick answers that reflect the actual house, not just a broad ZIP Code.

From Barron's • Jan. 27, 2026