pax

¹ American  

[paks, pahks] / pæks, pɑks /

noun

1. Ecclesiastical. kiss of peace.

2. (initial capital letter) a period in history marked by the absence of major wars, usually imposed by a predominant nation.

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Pax ² American  

[paks, pahks] / pæks, pɑks /

noun

1. the Roman goddess of peace.

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PAX ³ American  

1. private automatic exchange.

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pax ¹ British  

/ pæks /

noun

1. RC Church

   1. a greeting signifying Christian love transmitted from one to another of those assisting at the Eucharist; kiss of peace

   2. a small metal or ivory plate, often with a representation of the Crucifixion, formerly used to convey the kiss of peace from the celebrant at Mass to those attending it, who kissed the plate in turn

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interjection

1. slang:school a call signalling an end to hostilities or claiming immunity from the rules of a game: usually accompanied by a crossing of the fingers

Pax ² British  

/ pæks /

noun

1. Greek counterpart: Irene.  the Roman goddess of peace

2. a period of general peace, esp one in which there is one dominant nation

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PAX ³ British  

abbreviation

1. private automatic exchange

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Etymology

Origin of pax

1325–75; Middle English < Latin: peace

Example Sentences

“Achievements of pax mongolica have created the solid grounds for the development of mutual respect between different nations of the world, cherishing each other’s values and identities, enabling peaceful coexistence of various civilizations,” he said.

From Seattle Times • Sep. 1, 2023

I suggest we relish life under pax atomica.

From Seattle Times • Mar. 7, 2022

The Latin reads “et in terra pax hominibus bonae voluntatis,” which translates not as “Peace on Earth. Good will toward men,” but as, “On Earth, peace to men of good will.”

From Washington Post • Dec. 31, 2020

Septuagesimo Uno may not offer the vast expanses of nearby Central Park, but if you can find a seat on one of its six benches, you might find a little pax et quies.

From New York Times • Apr. 7, 2015

Might it not be possible to walk boldly into the fort, say-"I've got pax," laugh lightly and sleep among the others?

From "Lord of the Flies" by William Golding