noun
winter greeting card; midwinter inquiry after someone's health
A seasonal greeting card sent during the coldest part of winter (usually January), often to inquire after someone's health. Distinct from 年賀状 (New Year's card); it is sent when one has not sent a New Year's greeting or to express sympathy during the cold season.
寒中見舞いを出す時期は、松の内が明けてから立春までです。
The period for sending winter greeting cards is from after the New Year's week until the beginning of spring.
喪中のため年賀状の代わりに寒中見舞いを送りました。
Because I am in mourning, I sent a winter greeting card instead of a New Year's card.