direct mail

American  

noun

1. mail, usually consisting of advertising matter, appeals for donations, or the like, sent simultaneously to large numbers of possible individual customers or contributors. DM

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Other Word Forms

• direct-mail adjective

Etymology

Origin of direct mail

First recorded in 1925–30

Example Sentences

Malchow cited two tectonic shifts: Swing voters were disappearing — 90% of voters were choosing parties, not candidates — and direct mail as a campaign tactic had completely stopped working.

From Salon • May 10, 2025

It also expressed concerns that proposals to add a new category of regulation to ensure timely delivery for business users like direct mail companies "goes against the wider government drive to reduce unnecessary regulation".

From BBC • Apr. 13, 2025

Staff members have sent a blitz of text messages, phone calls, emails and direct mail urging these supporters to caucus.

From New York Times • Jan. 1, 2024

Their strategy will include radio, TV and online advertising, plus direct mail.

From Seattle Times • Feb. 22, 2023

There is also a direct mail service between Suez and Port Sudan.

From Encyclopaedia Britannica, 11th Edition, Volume 9, Slice 1 "Edwardes" to "Ehrenbreitstein" by Various