email

Or e-mail

[ee-meyl]

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.

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.

Word History and Origins

Origin of email¹

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

Example Sentences

In an email sent to members, Gold’s Gym SoCal said the move to sell “wasn’t a decision we made lightly,” the WeHo Times reported.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

But the phone number listed is not recognised, and emails bounced back.

Read more on BBC

People back then thought Yahoo would dominate search and email.

Read more on MarketWatch

Imagine hiring a consultant to help you with tasks like writing emails, prepping slide decks or analyzing business financials—but not describing your business goals or professional responsibilities.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

Secondly, the British press published emails that showed Andrew was emailing Epstein in 2011, well after the royal had claimed he had cut ties with him.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal