Box Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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box
[bÉ’ks ]
Definitions
storage
A container, case, or receptacle, usually rectangular, of wood, metal, cardboard, etc., and often with a lid or removable cover.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| box |
In sports, particularly in British English, it refers to a small area on the field, such as a penalty box in football.
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| container |
A broad term that can refer to any item used for holding something. Used in various contexts, including shipping, storage, and everyday use.
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| case |
A container that often has a more specific use, such as a suitcase for travel or a protective case for devices. Used in formal or specialized contexts.
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| chest |
A large, sturdy box with a lid, often used for storing valuable items or as furniture. It has a somewhat old-fashioned or formal feel.
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Examples of usage
- Please put the books back in the box.
- She received a package in a small cardboard box.
- He found a hidden box in the attic.
sports
A small enclosure or area in a ring where a boxer or wrestler rests between rounds of a match.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| box |
An area on a paper or screen that is enclosed by lines, such as a checkbox or text box.
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| corner |
The point where two edges or sides meet, often used to describe a specific area or location within a room or outdoor space.
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| enclosure |
An area that is surrounded by a barrier such as a fence or wall, often used for animals or within documents.
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Examples of usage
- The boxer went to his corner of the ring during the break.
- The coach gave instructions to the boxer in his corner.
checkmark
To tick or mark with a checkmark or tick.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| box |
A square or rectangular area drawn or defined, often used in forms or documents.
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| tick |
A small check mark or symbol often used to indicate completion, correctness, or selection, commonly seen in British English.
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| mark |
To make a symbol or sign to show that something is correct, incorrect, or has been completed.
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Examples of usage
- Don't forget to box the items on the list once completed.
- She boxed each task as it was finished.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Pop Culture
- In the world of film, 'Box Office' refers to the commercial success of a movie, highlighting the economic side of cinema.
- The phrase 'thinking outside the box' emphasizes creativity and inventiveness, encouraging people to approach problems in new ways.
- Boxes have been iconic in art too; for instance, the art of minimalism embraces the simplicity of boxed shapes to convey deeper meaning.
Science
- In mathematics, a 'box' can refer to a three-dimensional shape known as a cuboid, useful in exploring volumes and surface areas.
- Packaging scientists study box designs to optimize space and materials, blending creativity with practicality.
- The concept of the box also appears in computer science as data structures, where 'boxes' can represent groups of objects or information.
Psychology
- Boxes evoke a sense of safety and security for many people, as they represent containment and organization in our environment.
- The 'box effect' in psychology can refer to how people categorize information to simplify decision-making, highlighting our instinct to compartmentalize thoughts.
- Packaging and how items are boxed can impact consumer behavior, as attractive designs can lead to increased interest and sales.
Literature
- Boxes often appear as symbols in literature, representing secrets, the unknown, or barriers that characters must overcome.
- In children's books, boxes might be magical, transforming into things like rockets or treasure chests, fostering imagination and adventure.
- Famous literary works like 'The Box Man' explore themes of isolation and the desire for personal space through the metaphor of a box.
Origin of 'box'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Old French 'boxe', which is derived from the Latin 'buxus', meaning boxwood, a sturdy type of wood used for making boxes.
- Box has been used in the English language since at least the 14th century, initially referring to a wooden container.
- In various languages, the word for box shares similar roots, showing a common idea of containment across cultures.
The word 'box' originated from the Old English word 'box', which referred to a container or receptacle. Over time, the word evolved to encompass various meanings, including a storage container, a small enclosure in a sports ring, and a verb meaning to mark with a checkmark. The versatility of 'box' has made it a commonly used word in the English language.