What does c/o mean on mail Meaning and Definition

Pronunciation

/ˌsiː oʊ/ 🔊

Part of Speech

Abbreviation

Definition

An abbreviation for “care of,” used to indicate that a letter or package should be delivered to a specific person at a particular address.

Examples

• The package was addressed to John Smith c/o Jane Doe.
• She sent the letter to her friend c/o his workplace.

Additional Information

The abbreviation “c/o” is commonly used when sending mail or packages to someone who does not receive mail at their usual address. This can include people who are traveling, living temporarily at another location, or receiving mail at a post office box.

In business, “c/o” may be used to indicate that a letter or package should be delivered to a specific department or individual within a company.

Etymology

The abbreviation “c/o” comes from the Latin phrase “care of,” which was first used in the 17th century to indicate that a letter or package should be delivered to a particular person or place.

Usage Notes

Use “c/o” before the name of the person or company that should receive the mail or package.

Cultural References

The use of “c/o” has been featured in various forms of media, including films, literature, and music.

Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases

• “c/o” is often used in combination with other phrases, such as “in care of” or “at the address of.”

Related Words or Phrases

• in care of
• at the address of

Collocations

• c/o name
• c/o company

Frequency of Use

The abbreviation “c/o” is commonly used in both personal and business correspondence.