Why is the post office called dog? - briefly
The term "post office" derives from the Latin phrase "ad canem," meaning "to the dog." This ancient expression was used to designate public notice boards, often depicted with a dog's image, which were placed near post offices for announcements and lost items. Over time, the association between dogs and postal services led to the enduring nickname of "dog" for post offices.
Why is the post office called dog? - in detail
The name "post office" has its roots in the ancient practice of delivering messages, which was initially performed by human messengers known as "couriers." Over time, dogs were increasingly used for this purpose due to their speed, loyalty, and ability to travel long distances without tiring. The term "post" originates from the Latin word "positum," which means "a fixed position or place," referring to the established routes and stations where messages could be delivered or picked up.
The association of dogs with message delivery is evident in various historical accounts. For instance, during the Persian Wars, a dog named Phylax was credited with saving the Greek city of Delphi by carrying a crucial message that warned the citizens of an impending attack. Similarly, in ancient Rome, dogs were often used to carry messages between military outposts and the capital.
In medieval Europe, the use of dogs for message delivery became more organized. The word "post" began to be used more frequently to describe these established routes and stations, leading to the term "post office." This name emphasized the fixed nature of these facilities, where messages could be reliably delivered or collected.
Over time, as human-powered transportation methods such as horseback riding and carriages became more prevalent, dogs were gradually replaced by humans for message delivery. However, the term "post office" persisted due to its established meaning and widespread recognition. Today, while we no longer use dogs to deliver mail, the historical connection between canines and message delivery remains an interesting aspect of the evolution of communication systems.