The term "mail order" refers to a method of purchasing goods or services by sending a mail or postal order to the seller. This typically involves placing an order through a catalog, phone call, or online and then paying for it using a check or money order before receiving the product in the mail at your home address. The phrase "mail order" is often associated with older forms of shopping where customers would receive catalogs in the mail to browse products and place orders, but today this term can also refer to online purchases made through websites that offer a wide range of goods or services for delivery directly to consumers' homes.