pyxis

noun

pyx·​is ˈpik-səs How to pronounce pyxis (audio)
plural pyxides ˈpik-sə-ˌdēz How to pronounce pyxis (audio)
: a capsular fruit that dehisces so that the upper part falls off like a cap

Word History

Etymology

New Latin, from Latin, box

First Known Use

1821, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of pyxis was in 1821

Dictionary Entries Near pyxis

Cite this Entry

“Pyxis.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/pyxis. Accessed 10 May. 2024.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!