snailmail
Stamped envelope delivery
Snailmail is physical mail delivered by postal service, as opposed to email.
The term emphasizes the comparative slowness of traditional delivery—days instead of seconds.
Usually written as two words or hyphenated: I'll send the contract by snail mail.
The word emerged in the 1980s as electronic communication became widespread.
Written symbol or message
- envelopeFolded paper enclosure
- stampMark-making device
- postcardMailable picture souvenir
- mailboxContainer for delivered mail
postage · address · penpal · stationery · mailman · postmark · letterbox · mailbag
Manual letter formation
- paperPressed pulp for writing
- inkWriting fluid
- parchmentTreated hide for manuscripts
- calligraphyOrnamental handwriting art
seal · wax · manuscript · typewriter · stationery · penmanship · cursive · fountain pen
Belonging to earlier times
- retroEvoking recent past
- traditionalFollowing long-held customs
- bygoneOf earlier times
- vintageQuality from past eras
quaint · handwritten · personal · sentimental · keepsake · treasured · cherished · romantic
Made to wait longer
- unhurriedTaking one's time
- waitingRemaining in expectation
- anticipationState of awaiting something
- patienceCalm during delays
leisurely · weeks · days · lag · transit · processing · turnaround · pending
letter
Written symbol or message
mailbox · postage · address · penpal · stationery · mailman · postmark · letterbox · mailbag · mailroom
handwriting
Manual letter formation
calligraphy · seal · wax · manuscript · typewriter · stationery · penmanship · cursive · fountain pen · letterhead
old-fashioned
Belonging to earlier times
- retroEvoking recent past
- traditionalFollowing long-held customs
- bygoneOf earlier times
vintage · quaint · handwritten · personal · sentimental · keepsake · treasured · cherished · romantic · love letter
delayed
Made to wait longer
- unhurriedTaking one's time
- waitingRemaining in expectation
- anticipationState of awaiting something
patience · leisurely · weeks · days · lag · transit · processing · turnaround · pending · overdue
snailmailinstant messaging
Live online text communication
real-time communication · same-day delivery · email · text message · express delivery
snailmailemail
Digital written communication
electronic mail · e-mail · digital communication · text message · texting