ditty box

noun

1. a small box used like a ditty bag.

Word History and Origins

Origin of ditty box¹

1880–85; Americanism

Example Sentences

It includes walking sticks and boxes that sailors fashioned primarily from whale bone or ivory during long voyages; especially impressive is an elliptical “ditty box” incised with neo-Classical buildings from around 1845.

From New York Times

An old man with a gray beard sat on a ditty box at the lee rail, sewing a pair of breeches.

From Project Gutenberg

The ditty box, my lads, is the sailor’s most treasured possession.

From Project Gutenberg

Never interfere with another man’s ditty box unless you are looking for trouble.

From Project Gutenberg

The ditty box serves as the jackie’s desk, his table, his seat and many other things.

From Project Gutenberg