pyxis

¹

[ pik-sis ]

noun

plural pyxides

1. Greek and Roman Antiquity. a box of a usually cylindrical shape having a lid with a knob in the center, used for toilet articles.
2. pyx ( def 1 ).
3. Botany. a pyxidium.

Pyxis

²

[ pik-sis ]

noun

Astronomy.

genitive Pyxidis

1. the Compass, a southern constellation: one of the subordinate constellations into which Argo is now divided.

Pyxis

¹

/ ˈpɪksɪs /

noun

1. an inconspicuous constellation close to Puppis that was originally considered part of the more extensive constellation Argo

pyxis

²

/ ˈpɪksɪs /

noun

1. a small box used by the ancient Greeks and Romans to hold medicines, etc
2. a rare word for pyx
3. another name for pyxidium

Word History and Origins

Origin of pyxis¹

1350–1400; Middle English < Latin < Greek pyxís a box

Origin of pyxis²

1680–90; < Latin < Greek pyxís a box, pyx

Word History and Origins

Origin of pyxis¹

C14: via Latin from Greek: box

Example Sentences

That starts with its name, which comes from the ancient Greek word “pyxis,” or small box, which was later used in Latin, too.

From Seattle Times

A girl with a pyxis stands on the left behind the throne.

From Project Gutenberg

The marriage is celebrated here in a pyxis attributed to the Meleager Painter.

From New York Times

All except the pyxis are decorated with painted figures, and contain flowers.

From Project Gutenberg

In one—the pyxis—the plastron is furnished with a transverse hinge, so that the animal can retract its head and fore-limbs within the carapace, and close the plastron upon it, first shutting them in.

From Project Gutenberg

Related Words

• trunk