znaczek

Znaczek is a Polish noun meaning a small sign or mark, derived from znak (sign, mark) with the diminutive suffix -ek. In everyday language it most often refers to a postage stamp — a small printed piece of paper issued by a postal authority and affixed to mail to indicate prepayment of postage. The term is also used more generally for any small emblem or label, and in philatelic contexts it is almost always understood as a postage stamp, including both commemorative and definitive issues, as well as revenue stamps used for fiscal purposes.

Historically, postage stamps began to be used in Polish territories after the modern Polish state emerged in 1918, with earlier mail in partitioned areas using stamps of the controlling powers. Since then, stamps have evolved from adhesive paper stamps to self-adhesive formats in the late 20th century, and modern issues often feature vivid designs, security elements, and thematic series. Stamp collecting (filatelia) is a popular hobby in Poland as elsewhere, with collectors focusing on Polish issues as well as stamps from various countries.

In contemporary usage, znaczek remains a standard term for postage stamps, but it can also refer to any small sign or mark, including lapel badges or miniature emblems in informal speech. For philatelists and postal historians, the znaczek is a primary object of study, reflecting a country’s history, culture, and technology of communication.