How Do You Spell POST MARK?

Pronunciation: [pˈə͡ʊst mˈɑːk] (IPA)

Post mark is a common term used in the postal service to indicate the date and location of mailing. The word combines two syllables, "post" and "mark," both of which are pronounced with short vowel sounds. In IPA phonetic transcription, the word is spelled /pəust mɑːrk/, with the first syllable pronounced as "puh-st" and the second syllable pronounced as "mahrk." This spelling accurately represents the sound of the word and helps to ensure proper pronunciation.

POST MARK Meaning and Definition

1. Post mark is a term used primarily in postal services to refer to a mark or impression made on a letter, envelope, or package by an officially authorized post office, indicating the date and location of its acceptance into the postal system. The post mark is typically applied with ink or a similar substance to indicate the day, month, year, and sometimes the time of mailing. This marking serves as evidence that the item has been officially processed by the postal service and provides important information for tracking and validating the delivery process.

   The purpose of a post mark is to cancel out any previous postage or franking marks that may have been applied and to prevent the reuse of stamps, ensuring that the item of mail is properly paid for before dispatched for delivery. It also acts as a proof of the item's entry into the postal system, which is crucial for legal or historic purposes.

   Moreover, post marks are often used to determine the timeliness of mail, especially in cases when deadlines or specific dates are important, such as submission of an application or payment. It can also help in identifying delays or issues in delivery by providing a reference point for tracing the mail's journey through the postal system.

   Overall, post marks serve as a vital component of the postal system, providing essential information about the mailing process while ensuring the integrity and accountability of the service.

Etymology of POST MARK

The word "postmark" originated from the combination of two words: "post" and "mark".

- "Post" comes from the Latin word "postis", meaning a postal station or a courier. This Latin term was then borrowed into English in the early 16th century.

- "Mark" has Old English roots, derived from the Germanic word "marcō" or "mērkią", which means a boundary, a sign, or a border.

When combined, "post mark" refers to the mark or stamp applied to a mail item to indicate the date and place of its mailing or receipt at a specific post office. The term has been in use since the 17th century to identify official postal markings.