zip code
A zip code is a series of letters and numbers used by postal services to identify specific geographic areas for mail delivery. In the United States, a zip code typically consists of five digits, with an optional four-digit extension for more precise locations. This system helps ensure that your mail, such as letters and packages, reaches the correct destination quickly and efficiently.
Zip codes are not just for mail; they can also provide valuable information about a location. For example, businesses often use zip codes to determine service areas, while researchers might analyze data by zip code to study demographics or trends in specific regions.