philately(n = noun.act) stamp collecting, stamp collection - the collection and study of postage stamps;
Derived form adjective philatelic₁, adjective philatelical₁, noun philatelist₁

   The collection of postage stamps of various issues. [1913 Webster]

philately, n. the collection and study of postage stamps.

Derivative:
philatelic adj. philatelically adv. philatelist n.

Etymology:
F philat{eacute}lie f. Gk ateleia exemption from payment f. a- not + telos toll, tax