zip code

¹ American  

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.

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zip-code ² American  

[zip-kohd] / ˈzɪpˌkoʊd /

Or ZIP-code,

verb (used with object)

zip-coded, zip-coding

1. to provide or mark with a zip code.

   Zip-code all mail.

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zip code British  

noun

1. the US equivalent of postcode

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Etymology

Origin of zip code

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

Example Sentences

By the time the Masters teed off, McIlroy could’ve dropped a ball anywhere in that zip code and been ready to hit.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 13, 2026

“There’s a supply-and-demand dynamic that sometimes produces counterintuitive results,” said Samir Shah, chief executive of CareScout, which has a tool that is searchable by zip code to help pinpoint cost estimates.

From MarketWatch • Mar. 4, 2026

Once registered - using their name, email and zip code - fans will be entered into the random draw for time slots to buy tickets in April.

From BBC • Jan. 14, 2026

On the other hand, zip code discrimination can leave good French companies undervalued.

From Barron's • Oct. 16, 2025

Burt had the most sensational information, and models to analyze that information—he could tell you, for example, what would happen to mortgage loans, zip code by zip code, in various house price scenarios.

From "The Big Short" by Michael Lewis