general delivery

American  

noun

1. a postal service that delivers mail to a specific post office where it is held for pickup by the addressee.

2. the postal department that handles such mail.

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general delivery British  

noun

1. an address on mail indicating that it should be kept at a specified post office until collected by the addressee

2. the mail-delivery service or post-office department that handles mail having this address

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Etymology

Origin of general delivery

An Americanism dating back to 1830–40

Example Sentences

Google and Amazon are also working to use drones for more general deliveries.

From NewsForKids.net

It also will not mail pills to post office boxes or via general delivery.

From Washington Post

Many had “general delivery” listed as their address, which often means they’re homeless, the Sacramento News and Review noted.

From The Guardian

Homeless individuals can receive mail through general delivery at the post office, but it’s considered a temporary service and the mail is only held for up to 30 days.

From Washington Times

He gave his wallet to Holly so that he could pick up some mail for him from general delivery.

From Washington Post