Snuffbox: meaning, definitions and examples
💼
snuffbox
[ ˈsnʌf.bɒks ]
box type
A snuffbox is a small container designed to hold snuff, which is finely powdered tobacco. Historically, it was a popular accessory among men and women in the 18th and 19th centuries. These boxes were often elaborately decorated and made from precious materials such as gold, silver, and ivory. Snuff-taking became a common pastime, and having a personalized snuffbox was a sign of status. Today, snuffboxes are mostly considered collectibles and are admired for their artistic craftsmanship.
Synonyms
snuff tin, tobacco box.
Examples of usage
- He opened his antique snuffbox to offer some snuff.
- The intricate design of the snuffbox caught everyone's eye.
- She inherited a beautiful snuffbox from her grandfather.
- Snuffboxes were once commonly found at social gatherings.
- Collectors pay high prices for rare snuffboxes.
Translations
Translations of the word "snuffbox" in other languages:
🇵🇹 caixa de rapé
🇮🇳 स्नफ़बॉक्स
🇩🇪 Schnupftabakdose
🇮🇩 kotak tembakau
🇺🇦 папіросниця
🇵🇱 pudełko do snu
🇯🇵 スナッフボックス
🇫🇷 boîte à tabac
🇪🇸 caja de rapé
🇹🇷 nargile kutusu
🇰🇷 스너프박스
🇸🇦 صندوق السعوط
🇨🇿 krabička na šňupací tabák
🇸🇰 krabička na šnupací tabak
🇨🇳 鼻烟盒
🇸🇮 škatla za snuff
🇮🇸 snuffkassi
🇰🇿 шнобель қорабы
🇬🇪 სნუფბოქსი
🇦🇿 snuff qutusu
🇲🇽 caja de rapé
Etymology
The term 'snuffbox' derives from the combination of the word 'snuff' and 'box.' The word 'snuff' traces its origins back to the Middle French word 'snouf,' meaning 'to inhale through the nose.' This practice became popular in Europe during the 17th century, particularly as tobacco was introduced to the continent. As snuff gained popularity, ornate boxes were created to hold the powder, leading to the development of the snuffbox. These boxes often reflected the social status of their owners and featured intricate designs, engraved silver, and personalized embellishments. The practice of taking snuff waned in the 19th century with the rise of cigarettes, but snuffboxes remain a fascinating element of historical material culture, showcasing craftsmanship and social history.