Start of main content

Email Marketing Glossary.

Clear, no-fluff definitions of every email marketing term that matters—from open rates to double opt-in. 

 

Email Newsletter

An email newsletter is a recurring email sent to subscribers on a regular schedule to share news, content, product updates, and offers. It keeps your brand top of mind between purchases.

Also known as: newsletter, e-newsletter

A newsletter is how you stay in touch with subscribers on a regular rhythm — weekly, monthly, or somewhere in between. Done well, it builds a relationship rather than just pushing products.

What should an email newsletter include?

The best newsletters start with a purpose, not a template: a genuine reason to land in the inbox. That might be a monthly roundup, a gift guide, how-to content, curated picks, or tips tied to your expertise — usually with a clear CTA.

How often should you send a newsletter?

Consistency matters more than frequency. Pick a cadence you can sustain — many brands land on monthly or biweekly — and keep the format familiar so subscribers know what to expect.

Newsletter vs. promotional email

A promotional email pushes a specific offer; a newsletter blends value, content, and occasional offers to nurture the relationship over time. Both have a place in a healthy email program.

Related terms

Promotional Email Email Blast Cold Email Broadcast Email Re-Engagement Campaign

Related reading from Drip

17 Best Email Newsletter Examples to Inspire Your Next Campaign 6 Proven E-Commerce Newsletter Ideas to Inspire Your Own

Frequently asked questions

What is an email newsletter?
An email newsletter is a recurring email sent to subscribers on a set schedule to share updates, content, curated picks, and offers. It keeps your audience engaged and your brand top of mind between purchases.
What should you include in an email newsletter?
Lead with a clear purpose — a monthly roundup, gift guide, how-to, curated product picks, or expert tips — and include a focused CTA. The strongest newsletters offer real value, not just promotions.
How often should you send an email newsletter?
Choose a cadence you can maintain consistently; monthly or biweekly works for many brands. Regular, predictable sending builds the habit of opening — sending sporadically or too often both hurt engagement.
What's the difference between a newsletter and a promotional email?
A promotional email focuses on a single offer or sale. A newsletter mixes content, updates, and occasional offers to nurture the subscriber relationship over time. Most email programs use both.
An illustration of a an envelope with a thumbs up.
An illustration of an envelope with an arrow.

Come for the automated marketing. Stay for the endless revenue growth.

Start a 14-day free trial, no credit card required.

Try Drip today