matchbox

noun

match·​box ˈmach-ˌbäks How to pronounce matchbox (audio)
: a box for matches

Examples of matchbox in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Adam’s father had had a pacemaker, like a little matchbox under his collarbone, and heart trouble was often genetic. — Helen Simpson, New Yorker, 30 Aug. 2026 Dreaming of a harvestable nirvana in a matchbox yard? — Rachel Silva, Martha Stewart, 25 Apr. 2026 The matchbox typeface ultimately inspired the publication’s title font. — Amy Paige Condon, AJC.com, 12 Mar. 2026 Handmade in England by highly skilled artisans steeped in traditional methods, these home fragrance diffusers come in a ceramic matchbox containing a terra-cotta stone upon which one adds a few drops of Gallia Rae essential oil. — Air Mail, 7 Mar. 2026 See All Example Sentences for matchbox

Word History

First Known Use

1853, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of matchbox was in 1853

Rhymes for matchbox

See All Rhymes for matchbox

Browse Nearby Words

matchbook
matchbox
matchcoat
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Matchbox.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/matchbox. Accessed 7 Sep. 2026.

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Kids Definition

matchbox

noun
match·​box -ˌbäks How to pronounce matchbox (audio)
: a box for matches
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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