matchbox

American  

[mach-boks] / ˈmætʃˌbɒks /

noun

1. a small box, usually of cardboard, for matches.

---

matchbox British  

/ ˈmætʃˌbɒks /

noun

1. a small box for holding matches

---

Etymology

Origin of matchbox

First recorded in 1780–90; match ¹ + box ¹

Example Sentences

These so-called inertial navigation units, which range from the size of a matchbox to that of a Kleenex box, can be made for use in the air, on land, underground or underwater.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 18, 2026

In a matter of months, they transformed the heaps of charred rubble into mostly vacant matchbox lots, ready for rebuilding.

From Los Angeles Times • Sep. 22, 2025

Going all out, I once tried to go to a fancy-dress party as a Swan Vesta matchbox, wearing an elaborate cardboard contraption painted with a lot of time and effort.

From Slate • Jul. 21, 2025

This is what we call a major plot twist, one that will continue to bear fruit if the green matchbox from Sam’s restaurant is to be believed.

From New York Times • Mar. 29, 2023

Mo put the matchbox back on the desk.

From "Inkheart" by Cornelia Funke