Definition

Noun: A secure, individual storage container, typically housed within a bank or similar institution's vault, rented by a customer for safeguarding valuable items such as jewelry, important documents, or cash.

Examples of Usage

• We keep our marriage certificate and property deeds in a safe-deposit box at the local bank.
• After inheriting the antique coins, she immediately rented a safe-deposit box to store them securely.
• He forgot the key to his safe-deposit box, so he had to follow the bank's procedure for lost keys.

Advanced Usage

• "to have/keep something in a safe-deposit box": This is the standard phrasing for stating where an item is stored.
  • It is wise to keep your passport in a safe-deposit box when traveling long-term.
• The term is often used in legal and financial contexts regarding estate planning or asset protection.

Variants and Related Words

• Safe-deposit (noun, often used attributively): Referring to the service or facility itself.
  • The bank charges an annual fee for its safe-deposit services.
• Safety deposit box: A common variant spelling and phrasing with identical meaning.
• Strongbox: A general term for a sturdy lockable box for valuables, not necessarily located in a bank vault.
• Safe (noun): A more general term for a secure container for valuables, which can be a standalone unit in a home or business.

Synonyms

• Lockbox
• Deposit box
• Security box

Related Phrases

• Safe-deposit vault: The reinforced room or area within a bank where the boxes are located.
• Joint safe-deposit box: A box rented and accessible by more than one person, often spouses or business partners.

Noun

1. a fireproof metal strongbox (usually in a bank) for storing valuables