zip code

¹

Or ZIP code,

noun

1. a system used in the U.S. to facilitate the delivery of mail, consisting of a five- or nine-digit code printed directly after the address, the first five digits initial code indicating the state and post office or postal zone, the last four expanded code the box section or number, portion of a rural route, building, or other specific delivery location.

zip-code

²

Or ZIP-code,

[zip-kohd]

verb (used with object)

zip-coded, zip-coding 

1. to provide or mark with a zip code.

   Zip-code all mail.

zip code

noun

1. the US equivalent of postcode

Word History and Origins

Origin of zip code¹

An Americanism first recorded in 1960–65, Z(one) I(mprovement) P(rogram)

Word History and Origins

Origin of zip code¹

C20: from z ( one ) i ( mprovement ) p ( lan )

Example Sentences

“Our shared goal is to ensure that every Californian has peace of mind, knowing they can recover and rebuild after a disaster, regardless of their ZIP Code or income level,” he said.

From Los Angeles Times

A person’s family wealth, their access to education and even the zip code they’re born into shapes their chances at economic mobility.

From Salon

We measured tax returns from every ZIP Code in the state.

From Los Angeles Times

Twenty-two enforcement actions were reported from Panorama City, the highest of every zip code analyzed.

From Los Angeles Times

The upshot was that hospitals and doctors were unsure when to intervene, and that the access available to patients with the most serious emergencies varied by ZIP code.

From Slate