pillar box

American  

noun

British.

1. a pillarlike box in which letters are deposited for collection by mail carriers; mailbox.

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pillar box British  

noun

1. (in Britain) a red pillar-shaped public letter box situated on a pavement

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adjective

1. characteristic of a pillar box (in the phrase pillar-box red )

Etymology

Origin of pillar box

First recorded in 1855–60

Example Sentences

In an interview with historian Brian Harrison in the 1970s, Jessie recalled the so-called "pillar box outrages" were planned "with military precision."

From BBC • Apr. 6, 2025

In the film, we see Edelsytn dropping the letters into a pillar box.

From The Guardian • Sep. 15, 2020

Did you know that he invented the red pillar box?

From Salon • Jun. 25, 2012

"Perhaps I will change one person's mind today," I thought proudly as I walked to the pillar box.

From The Guardian • Jan. 30, 2011

Gertrude posted her letter on her way to the Stacey's house and she felt vaguely relieved when it slipped from her fingers into the chasm of the red pillar box.

From The Girls of St. Olave's by Mackintosh, Mabel