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Boxes Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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boxes

[ˈbɒksɪz ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

packaging

A container, case, or receptacle, usually rectangular, of wood, metal, cardboard, etc., and often with a lid or removable cover.

Synonyms

carton, case, container.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
boxes

General term for storage or transport. Commonly used for packing and moving items.

  • We packed all our books into boxes for the move
  • The toys are stored in cardboard boxes
container

A broad term for any receptacle or holder that can store or transport materials, often used for larger or industrial purposes.

  • The shipping container was loaded onto the cargo ship
  • She keeps all her kitchen utensils in containers on the counter
case

Typically refers to a container designed for carrying or storing specific items, often with compartments or padding for protection.

  • He put his glasses back in their case
  • The musical instruments were transported in custom cases
carton

Usually refers to a box made from heavy paper or cardboard, often used for packaging liquid or food items.

  • She bought a carton of milk
  • Eggs come in a carton to prevent them from breaking

Examples of usage

  • The moving company provided us with sturdy boxes for packing our belongings.
  • She placed the gift in a beautifully decorated box.
Context #2 | Noun

computing

A section of a computer screen used to separate content or options.

Synonyms

frame, panel, section.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
boxes

General term for a container or a space segmented for storing or organizing items. Commonly used in everyday situations.

  • I bought some boxes to organize my books.
  • We need more boxes to pack our things for the move.
section

Best used to indicate a distinct part of a larger whole, often in documents, structures, or a general division of space or content.

  • The library has a section dedicated to history books.
  • This section of the report needs more detail.
panel

Refers to a flat, usually rectangular piece of material that forms part of a larger structure, or a group of people assembled for a specific purpose, like discussion or decision-making.

  • The door has a glass panel in the center.
  • She was invited to join the discussion panel.
frame

Used mainly for the structure that supports something like a picture, window, or door. Can also refer to the skeletal structure of physical and abstract things.

  • The picture looks beautiful in that golden frame.
  • He built a wooden frame for the house.

Examples of usage

  • You can find the settings option in the top right corner of the search box.
  • The search results are displayed in a separate box on the webpage.
Context #3 | Verb

action

To put into a box.

Synonyms

encase, pack, package.

Examples of usage

  • She carefully boxed up her winter clothes for storage.
  • He boxed the items and sealed the package for shipping.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

  • The concept of using boxes for storage dates back thousands of years to ancient civilizations.
  • In ancient Egypt, boxes were often used to hold valuable items and were placed in tombs.
  • Modern cardboard boxes were developed in the 19th century, making shipping goods much easier.

Art and Design

  • The iconic 'Box' art piece by artist Andy Warhol challenged traditional views of art and commercialism.
  • In modern art installations, boxes are often used to evoke themes of containment and exploration.
  • Origami boxes, made from a single piece of paper, highlight the blend of art and functionality.

Science

  • Researchers use special boxes to study bees, providing shelter while observing their behavior in a controlled environment.
  • In physics, 'boxes' are used in experiments to demonstrate concepts like weight distribution and pressure.
  • Storage boxes made of specific materials can help preserve biological samples for research.

Pop Culture

  • The phrase 'thinking outside the box' became popular in the late 20th century, encouraging creative problem-solving.
  • In children's literature, boxes are often magical, containing secrets or adventures, like in the story 'The Boxcar Children.'
  • Movies like 'The Box' explore themes of choice and consequence through mysterious boxes.

Psychology

  • The idea of 'box thinking' in cognitive psychology refers to limiting one's thoughts and solutions to familiar patterns.
  • Cluttered spaces filled with boxes can lead to feelings of anxiety or overwhelm, impacting mental clarity.
  • Using boxes for organization can foster a sense of control and reduced stress in personal spaces.

Origin of 'boxes'

The word 'boxes' originated from the Old English word 'box', which referred to a container or receptacle. Over time, the meaning expanded to include various types of containers made from different materials. In computing, the term 'box' is used to describe a designated area on a screen. The verb form 'to box' has its roots in the idea of enclosing or packaging items. Today, 'boxes' continue to play a significant role in packaging, storage, and digital interfaces.

See also: box, boxed, boxer, boxers, boxing, unbox.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #3,556, this word is part of upper-intermediate vocabulary. While not among the most basic terms, it appears often enough to be valuable for advanced communication.