Definition

Noun: 1. (Roman Catholic Church) A liturgical object and gesture: A small tablet or plaque, often bearing a religious image, that is kissed by the priest and then by other participants during the Mass as a sign of peace and unity. By extension, the "kiss of peace" ritual itself. 2. (Archaic or Humorous) Peace: Used as an exclamation or declaration to call for a truce, especially among children. 3. (Aviation & Hospitality) A passenger: Used as a code or shorthand, especially in passenger manifests (e.g., "150 pax on board").

Usage Examples

• Noun (Liturgical):
  • The priest passed the pax to the deacon.
  • The ritual of the pax symbolizes the congregation's bond of charity.
• Noun (Peace):
  • "Pax!" he shouted, dropping his toy sword. "I don't want to fight anymore."
• Noun (Passenger):
  • The flight is fully booked with 300 pax.
  • The hotel can accommodate 500 pax per night.

Advanced Usage

• "Pax vobiscum": A Latin phrase meaning "Peace be with you," used as a greeting or blessing.
• "Pax Americana" / "Pax Romana": Historical terms referring to a period of relative peace imposed and maintained by a dominant power (America or ancient Rome).

Variants and Related Words

• Pacify (verb): To bring peace, to calm.
• Pacific (adjective): Peaceful, tending to lessen conflict.
• Pacifist (noun): A person who believes in and refuses to participate in war or violence.

Synonyms

• (For peace): Truce, ceasefire, armistice.
• (For passenger): Traveler, fare.

Notes on Different Meanings

• The primary, specific meaning is within the context of the Roman Catholic liturgy.
• The use meaning "passenger" is industry jargon (aviation, tourism, events) and is not typically used in general conversation.
• The exclamation "Pax!" is now considered old-fashioned or deliberately quaint, often used for humorous effect.

Noun

1. (Roman Catholic Church) a greeting signifying Christian love for those assisting at the Eucharist