Postage Stamp - English Definition & Meaning

Definition

A postage stamp is a small, adhesive piece of paper issued by a postal authority to show that postage has been paid 🎫. You stick it on an envelope or package before mailing it. The stamp indicates that the sender has paid the fee for the postal service to deliver the item. Stamps often feature designs representing national symbols, historical figures, or special events. They are like mini-receipts for postal services and are essential for sending mail.

Etymology

The first postage stamps were introduced in the mid-19th century in England. Sir Rowland Hill is credited with developing the idea of prepaid postage using adhesive stamps. The 'postage' part refers to the postal fee, and 'stamp' is derived from the act of stamping or marking something to indicate payment. Stamps revolutionized the postal system, making it more efficient and accessible.

Related Words

Examples

• "I need to buy some postage stamps to mail these letters."
• "She collected postage stamps from all over the world."
• "The postage stamp featured a portrait of Abraham Lincoln."
• "Make sure the postage stamp is securely attached to the envelope."

Encouragement

Now you know what a postage stamp is! Look closely at the designs on your stamps – they often tell a story. You might even start a stamp collection! 👍

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