Definition

A person or group to whom a message, letter, or other communication is directed.

Example

The addressee of the letter was surprised to receive it.

Conversation

Did you see the email about the meeting?

Yeah, but I wasn't sure who the addressee was supposed to be.

I think it was meant for all the team members.

That makes sense; I’ll double-check with everyone.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Addressee → It is formed from "address" (from Old French *adresser*, meaning to direct or to put in a certain direction) and "-ee" (a suffix used to indicate a person who is the recipient of an action). The word "addressee" refers to the person to whom something is directed or addressed.

Memory Tip

Think of someone being 'directed' ('address') and the '-ee' meaning a person who receives that direction. An addressee is simply the person to whom something is addressed.

Visually Confused Words