email

American  

[ee-meyl] / ˈiˌmeɪl /

Or e-mail

noun

1. a system for sending messages to one or more recipients via telecommunications links between computers using dedicated software or a web-based service.

   Communication by email is almost instantaneous.

2. a message sent by email.

   Send me an email about that idea, and I'll get back to you.

3. an address at which a person can receive email messages.

   He’s got my phone number and email in case he needs to contact me.

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verb (used with object)

1. to send (a message or file) to (a person or organization) by email: I emailed the company but haven’t heard back yet.

   He emailed his response to the invitation.

   I emailed the company but haven’t heard back yet.

verb (used without object)

1. to send an email; communicate by email or exchange emails: We emailed back and forth for three weeks before actually meeting.

   She emailed to say she’ll be on vacation next week.

   We emailed back and forth for three weeks before actually meeting.

Etymology

Origin of email

First recorded in 1975–80; e(lectronic) + mail ¹

Explanation

Email is an electronic message that's sent from one computer to another. When you receive good news in an email, you can forward the message to your friends and family. Most email these days uses the Internet for connecting the sender and recipient. Unlike some other kinds of messaging, when you send an email to a friend, she doesn't have to be online at the same time to get your message. The next time she checks her email account, your email will be waiting for her. Email, sometimes spelled e-mail, is short for electronic mail, and was coined in the early 1980s.

Example Sentences

“If you’re looking for a reason not to chase, this chart is for you,” Toomey said about the chart above in commentary shared via email.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 11, 2026

“The top priority for every Delta flight attendant is to ensure the safety and comfort of all customers while providing exceptional service,” a Delta spokesperson told MarketWatch in an email.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 10, 2026

“We need state and local law enforcement engagement and information, so we don’t have to have such a presence on the streets,” a Homeland Security spokesperson wrote in an email to The Times.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 10, 2026

In its email, the university said it wanted to reassure students their qualification was unaffected and "remains fully recognised".

From BBC • Apr. 10, 2026

“I’ll bring this with me. I’m pretty sure Birdie’s has Wi-Fi, so we can set up your email when we get there.”

From "The Wrong Way Home" by Kate O’Shaughnessy