SINCE 1828
pax
noun
\ ˈpaks
, ˈpäks
\
, ˈpäks
\
Definition of pax
1
: a tablet decorated with a sacred figure (as of Christ) and sometimes ceremonially kissed by participants at mass
2
: the kiss of peace in the Mass
3
: peace
especially,
capitalized
: a period of general stability in international affairs under the influence of dominant military power
—usually used in combination with a latinized name Pax Americana
Keep scrolling for more
Comments on pax
What made you want to look up pax? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).
Test Your Vocabulary
Time Traveler Quiz: Which Word Came First?
-
- Which came first?
Test your knowledge - and maybe learn something along the way.
TAKE THE QUIZ
Test Your Knowledge - and learn some interesting things along the way.
TAKE THE QUIZLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Words at Play
Ask the Editors
Word Games
-
Time Traveler Quiz: Which Word Came First?
Which word entered the English language first?
Take the quiz -
Slippery Words Quiz—Changing with the Times
Do you know these earlier meanings of words?
Take the quiz -
True or False?
Test your knowledge - and maybe learn something along the way.
Take the quiz -
Bee Cubed
Listen to the words and spell through all three levels.
Play the game
Share pax
Resources for pax