mail1 / māl/ • n. letters and packages conveyed by the postal system. ∎ (also the mails) the postal system: you can order by mail the check is in the mail | [as adj.] a mail truck. ∎ [in sing.] a single delivery or collection of mail: the new magazine that came in the mail today. ∎ Comput. electronic mail. ∎ dated a vehicle, such as a train, carrying mail. ∎ archaic a bag of letters to be conveyed by the postal system.• v. [tr.] send (a letter or package) using the postal system: if you will mail the coupon, we'll send you a free trial package. ∎ Comput. send (someone) electronic mail.DERIVATIVES: mail·a·ble adj.mail2 • n. hist. armor made of metal rings or plates, joined together flexibly. ∎ the protective shell or scales of certain animals.• v. [tr.] clothe or cover with mail: [as adj.] (mailed) a mailed gauntlet. PHRASES: the mailed fist the use of physical force to maintain control or impose one's will.
