inbox

American  

[in-boks] / ˈɪnˌbɒks /

Or in-box

noun

1. a boxlike tray, basket, or the like, as on a desk, for holding incoming mail, messages, or work.

2. Computers. a folder for receiving and storing incoming emails or text messages.

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inbox British  

/ ˈɪnˌbɒks /

noun

1. (on a computer) a folder in a mailbox in which incoming messages are stored and displayed

2. a US and Canadian name for in-tray

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Etymology

Origin of inbox

First recorded in 1955–60; in ( def. ) + box ¹ ( def. )

Example Sentences

Audit your inbox: Search your email for the words “sale” or “deal” and unsubscribe from the five retailers you shop at the most.

From MarketWatch • Mar. 31, 2026

For Handirk von Ungern-Sternberg, it started with an email that dropped into his inbox in February 2021.

From BBC • Mar. 22, 2026

Last August, an email with a different address popped into Albert’s inbox asking if she might have 15 minutes to chat.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 8, 2026

To sign up to receive this newsletter in your inbox every week, please click here.

From Slate • Feb. 19, 2026

Only two new messages were left in my inbox, from people on my authorized contact list.

From "Ready Player One: A Novel" by Ernest Cline