Glossary definition

Return-path

The return-path is the envelope sender address that receives bounces and commonly determines which domain SPF evaluates.

How GTM Inboxes uses this term

GTM keeps public guidance focused on authentication and readiness signals without treating return-path configuration as a deliverability guarantee.

Why operators inspect it

The return-path can explain why SPF results differ from what the visible From domain suggests. It is a useful diagnostic when DMARC alignment or bounce handling looks wrong.

How to use the signal safely

Treat return-path review as one piece of authentication troubleshooting. Do not use it as launch approval or inbox-placement proof.

Related glossary terms

DMARC alignment

DMARC alignment is the match between the visible From domain and the authenticated SPF or DKIM domain used to evaluate a message.

SPF lookup limit

The SPF lookup limit is the maximum number of DNS lookups an SPF evaluation may require before receivers treat the record as too expensive to process.

DKIM selector

A DKIM selector is the selector value in a DKIM signature that maps to a public key record under the sending domain.

Related workflows

Check domain records

Review authentication posture before readiness or launch-gate work.

Seed placement workflow

How the concept shows up in the pre-launch evidence workflow.

Browse the glossary

Every cold email infrastructure term GTM models, checks, or gates.

Next step

Work through DNS and authentication setup before launch planning.

Review domain setup