match-box
Definition
Noun: - A small box or container designed to hold matches, typically made of cardboard or wood, with a striking surface on one side for lighting the matches.
Usage Examples
- (A container for storing matches.)
- (A small box used to carry matches.)
- (The box’s outer surface was decorated.)
Advanced Usage
"to strike a match on the match-box": to light a match by rubbing it against the striking surface of the box.
- She struck the match against the side of the match-box to light the candle. (She used the box’s special surface to ignite the match.)
"match-box collection": a hobby of collecting matchboxes, often for their labels or designs.
- His match-box collection includes boxes from over 50 countries. (He gathers matchboxes as a pastime.)
Variants and Related Words
Matchbox (n): a common alternative spelling without a hyphen; identical meaning.
- The matchbox was made of thin cardboard. (A container for matches.)
Match (n): a short, thin stick of wood or cardboard tipped with a chemical that ignites when struck.
- He used a match to light the stove. (A single device for creating fire.)
Synonyms
- Match container: a general term for any box or holder for matches.
- Match holder: a device or box that holds matches.
Related Idioms
"to be like a matchbox in a hurricane": (informal) to be small, fragile, or easily overwhelmed.
- The tiny boat was like a matchbox in a hurricane during the storm. (The boat was very small and vulnerable.)
"to open a can of matches": (rare, humorous) to start a small, controlled fire or conflict.
- His comment opened a can of matches in the quiet meeting. (His remark caused a minor dispute.)