The word "matchboxes" can be spelled phonetically as /ˈmætʃˌbɑksɪz/. The two syllables in the word are "match" and "boxes", with the primary stress being on the first syllable "match". The "a" in "match" is pronounced as /æ/ and the "o" in "boxes" is pronounced as /ɑ/. The "ch" sounds in both "match" and "boxes" are pronounced as /tʃ/. Therefore, to spell the word correctly, remember to include the two "t" sounds in the middle and the final "es" at the end.
Matchboxes are small rectangular containers made of cardboard or metal that are specifically designed to hold matches safely. They typically measure around 1.375 inches in length, 1.125 inches in width, and 0.375 inches in height, although variations in size and shape can exist. Primarily used for convenient storage and transportation of matches, matchboxes often consist of two main sections – a base and a lid. The base houses the matchsticks, typically packed tightly and uniformly, while the lid acts as a protective cover, preventing accidental ignition of the matches by friction or heat.
Matchboxes offer a portable solution for carrying matches, protecting them from environmental factors such as moisture, wind, or friction that could cause premature ignition. Moreover, they often contain a striking surface found on the side or bottom of the box, allowing users to safely ignite the matches by rubbing them against the rough surface.
Due to their compact size and fireproof nature, matchboxes are commonly used in various settings, including households, camping trips, emergency survival kits, and restaurants. Beyond their practicality, matchboxes may also serve as collectible items, often featuring unique designs, logos, or advertisements, reflecting different brands or periods.
In conclusion, matchboxes are small containers specifically designed to house and protect matches from accidental ignition while providing a striking surface for igniting the matches securely.
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
The word "matchboxes" is a compound noun formed by combining two separate words: "match" and "boxes".
1. Match: The word "match" dates back to the 14th century and originated from the Old French word "meche", meaning "wick". This refers to the early form of matches that involved a wick soaked in sulfur. Over time, the word evolved to encompass different types of matches, such as friction matches, which became popular in the 19th century.
2. Boxes: The term "boxes" derives from the Old English word "box", stemming from the Latin word "buxus", which refers to the boxwood tree or its wood. Boxwood was often used to make small containers or storage units and gradually the term "box" expanded to encompass any small, rectangular container.