pencil-box

A child opens her pencil-box on the classroom desk.

Definition

1. Noun:
   • A small container, typically made of plastic, metal, or fabric, designed to hold pencils, pens, erasers, and other writing instruments. It is commonly used by students to organize and carry their stationery.

Usage Examples

• (A container for storing writing tools.)
• (A personal stationery case for school use.)

Advanced Usage

• "to open one's pencil-box": to take out or reveal the contents of a pencil-box.

  • He opened his pencil-box to lend a friend a spare pen. (He accessed his stationery container to help someone.)

• "a pencil-box full of supplies": a pencil-box that contains a variety of writing and drawing materials.

  • Her pencil-box was full of supplies, including markers and highlighters. (Her container was stocked with various items.)

Variants and Related Words

• Pencil case: a synonym for pencil-box, often used interchangeably, though "case" may imply a softer or zippered container.

  • He bought a new pencil case made of leather. (A similar container for pencils.)

• Pencil pouch: a small bag or pouch used to store pencils and other small items.

  • The pencil pouch is easy to carry in a backpack. (A flexible alternative to a rigid box.)

Synonyms

• Stationery box: a container for stationery items, including pencils, pens, and erasers.
• Pen box: a box specifically for pens, but often used broadly for writing instruments.

Related Idioms

• "Keep your pencils in your pencil-box": an idiom meaning to be prepared and organized, often used in school contexts.
  • The teacher reminded the class to keep their pencils in their pencil-box to avoid losing them. (A directive to maintain order and readiness.)