snuffbox

American  

[snuhf-boks] / ˈsnʌfˌbɒks /

noun

1. a box for holding snuff, especially one small enough to be carried in the pocket.

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snuffbox British  

/ ˈsnʌfˌbɒks /

noun

1. a container, often of elaborate ornamental design, for holding small quantities of snuff

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Etymology

Origin of snuffbox

First recorded in 1680–90; snuff ¹ + box ¹

Example Sentences

Duncan Campbell, an expert and silver specialist on the show, said the snuffbox was the first all-English silver he had seen in his career.

From BBC • Mar. 5, 2023

I think it’s awfully hard for listeners who understand that you have to give up a snuffbox or some horses.

From Slate • Mar. 14, 2017

The Continental Congress in 1786 had consented, after a debate, to Franklin keeping the snuffbox, as it had earlier with a similar gift to envoy Arthur Lee.

From Salon • Dec. 3, 2016

About 80 objects definitely or probably made by Phyfe’s workers are arranged chronologically, along with his snuffbox, spectacles, price book and tools.

From New York Times • Dec. 15, 2011

Professor McGonagall watched them turn a mouse into a snuffbox — points were given for how pretty the snuffbox was, but taken away if it had whiskers.

From "Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone" by J.K. Rowling