Definition

1. Noun:
   • A small, enclosed, often concrete military fortification: A pillbox is a small, low defensive structure, typically made of reinforced concrete, with openings (embrasures) for weapons like machine guns. It is designed to protect soldiers and provide a fortified firing position.
   • A small container for storing pills: A pillbox is a portable case, often with compartments for different days or times, used to organize and hold doses of medication.
   • A small, round, stiff hat for women: A pillbox is a style of women's hat, characterized by its small, cylindrical, and often brimless shape, popular in the mid-20th century.

Usage Examples

• Noun (Military):
  • The soldiers took cover in the concrete pillbox during the attack.
  • The old coastal defenses included several abandoned pillboxes.
• Noun (Medicine Container):
  • She fills her weekly pillbox every Sunday to manage her medication.
  • I keep my vitamins in a small plastic pillbox in my bag.
• Noun (Hat):
  • Jacqueline Kennedy was famously associated with the pillbox hat.
  • She wore a simple black pillbox to the formal event.

Advanced Usage

• Historical Military Context: The term "pillbox" became particularly common during World War I and World War II to describe small, hardened defensive positions.
  • The network of German pillboxes along the Atlantic Wall was a formidable obstacle.

Variants and Related Words

• Bunker (n): A reinforced underground shelter, often larger and more complex than a pillbox.
• Blockhouse (n): A similar type of fortified strongpoint, often made of heavy timber or concrete.
• Dispenser (n): A general term for a container that dispenses items, which could include a pill dispenser.
• Cloche (n): Another style of women's hat, bell-shaped, from a similar historical period.

Synonyms

• Military: Emplacement, fortification, strongpoint, bunker (in some contexts).
• Container: Pill case, medication organizer, dispenser.
• Hat: Toque (in some specific styles), small hat.

Related Phrases

• "Pillbox hat": The full term commonly used for the fashion item.
  • Her elegant outfit was completed with a classic pillbox hat.

Noun

1. a small enclosed gun emplacement (usually of fortified concrete)
2. a small case for holding pills
3. a small round woman's hat