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. 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

California law requires that ballots be counted as long as they are postmarked by election day and arrive at the registrar’s office within a week of the election.

From Los Angeles Times

Ballots must be postmarked by election day and received within seven days after the election.

From Los Angeles Times

For example, the state allows ballots to be accepted seven days after the election, but only if they are postmarked on or before the election.

From Los Angeles Times

"It will be of interest to two different kinds of people: Titanic specialists, of course, but also stamp collectors who like postmarks. This one, dated 'Cork 3.45pm April 11 1912' is exceptionally rare."

From BBC

Mail ballots in California can be counted for up to a week after election day as long as they’re postmarked by Tuesday.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• forward
• send