Pronunciation: [pˈɪks] (IPA) 
The word "pyx" pronounced /pɪks/ is a small container used in Christianity to hold the Eucharist or Holy Communion. Although it is a short word, it is often misspelled as "picks". The correct spelling of this word can be traced back to its Greek roots, where it is spelt "pyxis". The "y" in "pyx" comes from the Greek letter upsilon, which is pronounced like "oo" in English. Thus, "pyx" is pronounced as "picks" but with a short "i" sound.
A pyx is a small, container-like object, typically used in Christian religious rites, especially in the Catholic Church. It is usually made of precious metal, such as gold or silver, and often crafted with elaborate designs and intricate ornamentation. The term "pyx" is derived from the Greek word "pyxis," meaning a box or container.
In the context of Christian worship, the pyx serves as a vessel for holding the consecrated hosts, which are the Eucharistic bread or wafers that represent the body of Jesus Christ in the sacrament of Holy Communion. The pyx is carefully handled by a priest or a Eucharistic minister, who places the hosts inside it after they have been consecrated during Mass. This ensures that the consecrated hosts are protected and preserved until they can be distributed to the faithful who are unable to attend Mass, such as the sick or homebound.
Given its sacred purpose, the pyx holds significant religious significance for believers. It symbolizes the reverence and holiness associated with the Eucharist. In addition to its practical use for carrying and safeguarding the consecrated hosts, the pyx often serves as an important symbol of faith and devotion within the Catholic Church. It is a tangible representation of the belief in the real presence of Christ in the Eucharist and the importance of receiving it with reverence and respect.
The box containing the coins selected to be tried by the assay-master whether they are of the standard purity.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "pyx" traces its origins back to the Ancient Greek word "puxis", meaning "box" or "receptacle". The term was then borrowed into Latin as "pyxis", which referred to a small container or casket, often used to store valuables. In medieval Latin, "pyxis" also came to denote a cylindrical vessel used in the Christian Church to hold the consecrated Eucharistic bread, which is where it is primarily known today. The term "pyx" entered the English language via Old French, retaining its original meaning of a small box or receptacle.
