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Definition of inbox

inbox

/ˈɪnˌbɑːks/
in · box

Plural:inboxes
•
Past Simple:inboxed
•
Past Participle:inboxed
•
Present Participle:inboxing
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inbox Lexical Profile

inbox Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

An electronic folder or digital repository where incoming emails or direct messages are received and stored.

Example

"She checks her inbox first thing every morning to see if any urgent requests have arrived overnight."


2

A physical tray or basket kept on a desk for receiving incoming paperwork, letters, or documents.

Example

"The assistant placed the newly signed contracts directly into the manager's inbox."

• verb

1

To send a private digital message or email to someone.

Example

"If you want more details about the upcoming workshop, feel free to inbox me at any time."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for inbox

Word Origin & Etymology

Formed as a compound of 'in' (representing incoming) and 'box'. Originally used in the early 20th century to describe physical document trays on office desks, it gained widespread digital usage in the 1990s with the advent of email systems.

Cite this Entry


Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Inbox. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Oct 12, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/inbox
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