postage

UK: ˈpəʊstɪdʒ | US: ˈpoʊstɪdʒ

Definition

  1. n. the charge for mailing a letter or package

  2. n. stamps or other markings indicating payment for mail delivery

Structure
post <mail>age <noun suffix indicating cost or process>
Etymology

The word "postage" combines "post," derived from Latin posta (originally meaning "station for relaying mail"), with the suffix "-age," which denotes a fee or process (from Old French -age, ultimately Latin -aticum). The term emerged in the 16th century as postal systems formalized, reflecting the cost associated with mail delivery. The morphemes preserve the original spelling while clearly conveying the concept of "payment for mail service."

Examples

  1. The postage for international letters has increased this year.

  2. She forgot to add enough postage, so the package was returned.

  3. Vintage postage stamps can be valuable collectibles.

  4. The invoice includes a small fee for postage and handling.

  5. He carefully calculated the postage before mailing the parcel.