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/ˈiːmeɪl/
electronic message
I sent an email to my boss about the meeting.
The speaker refers to a digital message sent over the internet.
technical
A system for sending messages electronically over a computer network.
We use email for all office communications.
The digital messaging system is the primary tool for workplace correspondence.
The email server was down all morning.
The system responsible for processing digital messages was not operational.
Email is often abbreviated as 'e-mail' in formal contexts, though 'email' is now the standard spelling.
neutral
A message sent electronically via email.
I received an email from my friend yesterday.
The speaker refers to a specific digital message received.
She wrote a long email explaining her decision.
The speaker describes a detailed digital message written by someone.
Can be used as a countable noun ('an email') or uncountable ('I check my email every morning').
neutral
To send a message electronically via email.
Please email me the report by Friday.
The speaker requests that a digital message containing the report be sent.
He emails his clients daily updates.
The speaker describes regular digital correspondence with clients.
Common in business and personal contexts for remote communication.
Collocations
email addressthe unique identifier for sending emails to a personemail accounta user's access to an email servicespam emailunwanted or unsolicited digital messagesemail attachmenta file sent alongside an emailreply to an emailto respond to a received message
Synonyms
Pro Tip
Email Etiquette
Always include a clear subject line and a professional greeting. Use bullet points for clarity in long emails and proofread before sending.
Gold Rule
Subject Line Clarity
Write a specific subject line that summarizes the email's purpose to help the recipient prioritize and respond efficiently.
Reply Promptly
Aim to respond to emails within 24 hours, even if only to acknowledge receipt and provide a timeline for a full response.
Word Origin
From 'electronic' + 'mail', coined in the early 1970s as part of the development of ARPANET (precursor to the internet). The term 'mail' was extended metaphorically to electronic communication.
Usage Notes
Email is a ubiquitous tool in modern communication, replacing traditional postal mail for many purposes. It is commonly used in both formal (business, education) and informal (personal) contexts. The verb form 'to email' is widely accepted in standard English, though some purists prefer 'to send an email'.
Word Breakdown
electronic
relating to devices that use computer technology
rootmail
messages sent by post or electronically
rootEnglish Dictionary