# postmaster

/ˈpoʊsˌmæstɝ/ (US) · /pˈəʊstmɑːstɐ/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/postmaster
Updated: 2026-05-08

## Definition

the person in charge of a local post office. They manage the staff and make sure the mail is handled correctly.

For teachers: the official in charge of a specific post office or a postal district. While historically common, the title is now often replaced by more modern administrative designations in many postal services.

## Examples

- The postmaster signed for the delivery of the new stamps.
- After twenty years of service, the local postmaster retired and was celebrated by the entire village.
- The postmaster general oversees the entire national network, but individual postmasters maintain responsibility for the operational efficiency and security of their respective local branches.

## Usage notes

- The feminine form 'postmistress' is still occasionally used, though 'postmaster' is increasingly treated as a gender-neutral professional title.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.