postmark

[ pohst-mahrk ]

noun

1. an official mark stamped on letters and other mail, serving as a cancellation of the postage stamp and indicating the place, date, and sometimes time of sending or receipt.

verb (used with object)

1. to stamp with a postmark.

postmark

/ ˈpəʊstˌmɑːk /

noun

1. See cancellation
   any mark stamped on mail by postal officials, such as a simple obliteration, date mark, or indication of route See also cancellation

verb

1. tr to put such a mark on mail

Other Words From

• un·postmarked adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of postmark¹

First recorded in 1670–80; post ³ + mark ¹

Example Sentences

Assuming that the invitations arrive within days of one another, she promises not to check the postmark if you secretly choose the one that you prefer — so long as you promise never to confess.

From Washington Post

The letter had lain at his Club three days, it was dated Switzerland and the postmark was Montreux.

From Project Gutenberg

By the way, any letters bearing a certain postmark, that come addressed to me during my absence, Taylor has orders to send to you.

From Project Gutenberg

Ohio postmark for postmarks from any other State, and old issues of United States postage and revenue stamps for foreign stamps.

From Project Gutenberg

A comparison must have been interesting to you, by the same mail presumably, under the same postmark.

From Project Gutenberg

The letter came from beyond sea; it was addressed to Mess Lethierry, and bore the postmark "Lisbon."

From Project Gutenberg

Related Words

• forward
• send