Postcode: Definition, Examples, and Usage

Meaning 1：postal code (postcode)

postcode 🔊

/ˈpoʊstkoʊd/

A set of numbers and/or letters at the end of an address, used to sort and deliver mail quickly.

Hand writing a postcode on an envelope with city map background

postal code 🔊

➕

/ˈpoʊstəl koʊd/

A sequence of letters and/or numbers assigned to a geographic area to facilitate mail sorting and delivery.

📁 Category：Buildings & Places 🔖 Level：intermediate

📘 Details & Usage

📖 Root Explanation

From 'post' (Latin 'ponere' meaning to place) + 'code' (Latin 'codex' meaning book, later a system of symbols).

💡 Mnemonic

Think: 'Post your letter with the correct code, and it will reach the right road.'

📖 Example

When you order something online, make sure to enter your full address, including the correct postcode, so the package can find you. 🔊 When you order something online, make sure to enter your full address, including the correct postcode, so the package can find you.

🔗 Collocations

enter a postcode – type or write a postcode on a form

postcode lookup – the act of searching for a postcode using an online tool

postcode lottery – a situation where people in different areas have unequal access to services

🔄 Synonyms

zip code (n.) – The term used in the United States for a postal code.

postal code (n.) – A general term for the code used by postal services.

sorting code (n.) – A code used by mail sorting machines, though less common.

🌱 Derivatives

postcode area (n.) – A large region designated by the first part of a postcode.

postcode district (n.) – A smaller area within a postcode area.

postcode sector (n.) – An even more precise grouping of addresses.

📖 Cultural Story

The first postcodes were introduced in Britain in 1959 to speed up mail sorting. They consist of letters and numbers, e.g., 'SW1A 1AA', and have become essential for address accuracy worldwide.