blue box

American  

noun

1. an electronic device used by phone phreaks to send out signals that unlock long-distance telephone circuits.

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blue box British  

noun

1. a blue plastic container for domestic refuse that is to be collected and recycled

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Etymology

Origin of blue box

First recorded in 1975–80

Example Sentences

The blue box joins a growing list of deterrents deployed by Southern California business owners and property managers who have taken matters into their own hands to address the homeless crisis.

From Los Angeles Times • May 29, 2025

Cantrell expected to find magazines in the blue box.

From Seattle Times • Aug. 11, 2023

Tamarah Logan, a 56-year-old writer in Los Angeles, was shopping at Walmart last month when she spotted the blue box of Sweet Dreams with the tagline, “part of a healthy sleep routine.”

From Washington Post • Mar. 14, 2023

If you have to use a blue box, drop in the check before the day’s last scheduled pickup so it doesn’t sit in the box overnight.

From New York Times • Mar. 10, 2023

She picks up her bag, opens it, and finds a little blue box, slightly larger than the green campfire one.

From "The Knife of Never Letting Go" by Patrick Ness