WordGarden.iobox
A1Pronunciation
UK
- /bˈɒks/
US
- /ˈbɑks/
Meanings
Noun
a usually square or rectangular container
a square or rectangular area, frame, compartment, or space
an evergreen shrub, or the hard wood from it
Verb
to put something into a box or package
to fight with fists as a sport
to surround or trap someone or something so movement is limited
Beyond the definition
A box is a familiar item—usually a container with flat sides used for holding things. But it can also describe the shape something takes, like a "boxing ring," or even an action: to "box someone in" means to trap them. Think of a cardboard box filled with treasures, a boxing match full of energy, or feeling "boxed in" by too many responsibilities.
Boxes are everywhere! From cereal boxes on your kitchen counter to the little check box on a form, they're surprisingly versatile. You might "think outside the box" to solve a problem creatively, or feel boxed in by too many responsibilities. The phrase "Pandora's Box" refers to something that seems harmless but unleashes unforeseen troubles.
The word "box" most commonly brings to mind a container—typically rectangular, with flat sides and a lid—used for storing or transporting things. Think of the moving boxes piled high during a relocation, a gift box tied with ribbon, or even a tiny jewelry box holding precious keepsakes. These are all primary examples of the noun form of "box."
However, "box" is surprisingly flexible! It can also describe a shape—like a "box hedge" neatly trimmed into rectangular forms, or a "boxing ring," which usually has a square outline.
As a verb, to "box" something means to enclose it or put it in a container. You might "box up" your belongings for storage. However, the verb can also mean to strike someone with your fists—as in, "The boxer boxed his opponent relentlessly." A more figurative use of this verb is to "box someone in," meaning to trap them or limit their options.
We even have popular idioms involving the word! To "think outside the box" means to approach a problem creatively and unconventionally. And remember the myth of Pandora's Box? It represents something that appears simple but unleashes unforeseen consequences. So, whether it's holding your possessions, defining a shape, or describing a sport, the humble "box" is far more than meets the eye!
Examples
- 1
Jewelry
She put the necklace back in its box after the party.
- 2
Moving
There are still three boxes to unpack in the kitchen.
- 3
Form field
Please write your phone number in the box at the top of the page.
- Phrasein the box
inside the small space on a form
- 4
Gift
I ordered a box of chocolates for my parents.
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Packing
We need to box up the old clothes before we move.
- Phrasebox up
put things into boxes
- 6
Sports
The kids were told to stay inside the penalty box during the game.
- 7
Packaging
The new sofa came in a huge cardboard box.
- 8
Limited choices
His questions boxed me in, and I couldn't think of a good answer.
- Patternbox someone in
limit someone's choices or freedom
- 9
Creative thinking
The team came up with a clever solution by thinking outside the box.
- Phrasethink outside the box
think in a new, creative way
See also
Forms and spellings
4 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- boxnounverb
Forms
- boxespluralnounverb
- boxing-ing formverbnoun
- boxedpast tenseverbnoun