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

Examples of pyxis in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web This small pyxis — a box made for holding jewelry, incense, medicine and cosmetics — shows a domestic scene of women interacting in the gynaikeia or women’s quarters. Dallas News, 3 June 2022

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'pyxis.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

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 28 Mar. 2024.

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