MAILTO Meaning and
Definition
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"mailto" is a URI scheme that denotes the creation of an email link, enabling users to compose and send email messages through a web browser or an email client. It is short for "mail to," indicating the intent to initiate an email communication. The "mailto" link is embedded within a web page or a hyperlink, allowing users to click on it, triggering the opening of an email composition window.
When a user clicks on a "mailto" link, it typically activates the user's default email client or webmail service, pre-filling certain fields such as the recipient's email address, subject line, and even the message content if specified in the link. However, the behavior may vary depending on the user's system settings and preferences.
The "mailto" URI scheme is standardized by the Internet Engineering Task Force (IETF) and is widely supported across different operating systems, web browsers, and email clients. It provides a convenient way for users to initiate emails without the need to manually type or copy-paste email addresses and other details.
"mailto" links find extensive usage in websites, email signatures, and various online platforms, facilitating seamless communication between users and enabling them to share feedback, ask questions, or engage in business and personal correspondence effortlessly.
Etymology of MAILTO
The term "mailto" is a specific, abbreviated form of "mailto:", which is a URI scheme used in HTML to create a hyperlink that allows users to send an email using their default email client. It is not an independent word with its own etymology.
The prefix "mail" in "mailto" refers to the concept of electronic mail or email, which originated from the traditional concept of physical mail or letters delivered through a postal service.
The suffix "to" in "mailto" simply denotes the target or recipient of the email. In the context of the URI scheme, "to" is followed by an email address which specifies where the email should be sent.
