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

“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

The website will ask for your zip code or state, county and city.

From Los Angeles Times • Jan. 13, 2025

Except, as Camille is quick to point out, there are tons of addresses in one zip code.

From "South of Somewhere" by Kalena Miller