Box — Meaning, Definition & Synonyms
Meaning & Definition of Box
Box (noun)
- a rigid typically rectangular container with or without a cover
- an open cargo container of a vehicle
- coffin
- a punch or slap especially on the ear
- an evergreen shrub or small tree (genus Buxus of the family Buxaceae, the box family) with opposite entire leaves and capsular fruits; especially, a widely cultivated shrub (B. sempervirens) used for hedges, borders, and topiary figures
Box (verb)
- to enclose in or as if in a box
- to hem in (someone, such as an opponent) —usually used with in, out, or up
- to fight with the fists, engage in boxing
- to hit (something, especially someone's ears) with the hand
- to engage in boxing with
- to name the 32 points of (the compass) in their order —used figuratively in the phrase box the compass to describe making a complete reversal
Box (noun) — Senses, Synonyms & Antonyms
-
a covered rectangular container for storing or transporting things
"filled a whole box with books"
-
a boxlike container for holding a dead body
"the only way I'm ever leaving this hospital room is in a box"
-
an electronic device with a screen and speakers that reproduces images and sound
"would you switch on the box so that we can watch the news?"
-
a difficult, puzzling, or embarrassing situation from which there is no easy escape
"with our new home still unfinished, and the buyers of our condo eager to move in, we were in a real box"
-
a hard strike with a part of the body or an instrument
"the vicious bully delivered a box to the child's ear"
Box (verb) — Senses, Synonyms & Antonyms
-
to deliver a blow to (someone or something) usually in a strong vigorous manner
"his mother threatened to box his ears if he didn't show a bit more respect"
Synonyms, Thesaurus & Another Word for Box
The most common words with a similar meaning to Box:
Word Forms of Box
Origin & Etymology of Box
Middle English, from Old English, from Late Latin buxis, from Greek pyxis, from pyxos box tree
First known use: before 12th century
Vocabulary Lists & Topics for Box
- CEFR level: A1 English Vocabulary — Page 2
- Topics: Home & Daily Life
Words & Phrases Containing Box
Frequently Asked Questions about Box
What does "Box" mean?
"Box" means a rigid typically rectangular container with or without a cover. As an a noun and a verb, it is defined as: a rigid typically rectangular container with or without a cover. It has 6 distinct senses.
What is another word for "Box"?
Other words for "Box" include bin, caddy, case, casket, chest, locker, trunk and bier. The best synonym depends on which meaning of "Box" you intend.
What are different ways to say "Box"?
There are 248 words and phrases with a similar meaning to "Box". Common alternatives include bin, caddy, case, casket, chest, locker, trunk, bier, coffin and pall.
How do you use "Box" in a sentence?
Examples of "Box" in a sentence: "filled a whole box with books"; "the only way I'm ever leaving this hospital room is in a box"; "would you switch on the box so that we can watch the news?".
Is "Box" a noun, verb, or adjective?
"Box" can be used as a noun and a verb, depending on the context.
Is "Box" useful for IELTS, TOEFL, and other English exams?
As an A1-level word, "Box" is typical of Cambridge A1 Movers (Young Learners), TOEIC Listening & Reading 120+.
How do you pronounce "Box"?
"Box" is pronounced /ˈbäks/.
What is the origin of the word "Box"?
"Box" comes from Middle English, from Old English, from Late Latin buxis, from Greek pyxis, from pyxos box tree. First known use: before 12th century.