UK[ˈiːmeɪl]US[ˈiːmeɪl]
n
A system for sending messages electronically, especially between computers.
n
A message sent using this system.
v
To send a message to someone using email.
Morpheme Breakdown
e
mail
e
electronic
mail
postal system
Etymology
The word 'email' is a modern compound formed in the late 20th century. Its first element, 'e-', is an abbreviation for 'electronic', a pattern established with terms like 'e-commerce'. The second element, 'mail', has a long history, originating from the Old French 'male' meaning 'bag' or 'wallet', which itself came from a Germanic source. This evolved to refer to the system of transporting letters and parcels. The compound 'email' thus logically constructs the concept of 'electronic mail', directly mapping the familiar system of postal communication onto the new digital medium. It represents a clear example of how language creates new terms by blending a technological descriptor with a well-established core concept.
Analysis
Structure: e (electronic) + mail (postal system)
e: English, initialism for 'electronic', functioning as a prefix denoting the digital medium.
mail: Middle English (via Old French 'male'), from Germanic origin, meaning 'bag, traveling bag', later referring to the postal system. Functions as the core noun/verb denoting communication.
Examples
Please send your report to me by email.
I received an important email from the director this morning.
Don't forget to email the details to the whole team.