PYXIDIS Meaning and
Definition
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Pyxis is a noun that refers to a small cylindrical box or container, typically made of metal or ivory, which is used to store and protect precious items. It is often adorned with intricate designs and carvings, adding to its aesthetic appeal. Pyxidis is the plural form of pyxis, denoting multiple pyxides.
Pyxides are commonly associated with ancient civilizations, such as the Greeks and Romans, where they were used to hold various valuables. The box-like structure of a pyxis usually features a removable lid that is either hinged or slid open, allowing for easy access to the contents within.
These containers were primarily used to store and safeguard precious objects, such as jewelry, cosmetics, perfume, or small religious artifacts. Due to their portable nature, pyxides were often carried by individuals on their person or kept in secure locations, such as inside chests or hidden compartments.
The word "pyxidis" finds its etymological roots in Latin and Greek, where "pyxis" and "pyxidos" respectively mean "box" or "small box." Over time, the term has evolved to encompass both the singular and plural forms of the word.
In contemporary usage, the term "pyxidis" is primarily employed in the context of historical or archaeological discussions to describe ancient cylindrical containers. It serves as a descriptor for a specific type of artifact commonly encountered in museums, art collections, or scholarly research.
Etymology of PYXIDIS
The word "pyxidis" originates from the Greek word "pyxis", which means "box" or "container". In ancient Greece, a pyxis referred to a small cylindrical container or box used to store jewelry, cosmetics, or other small precious items. The term later evolved in Latin as "pyxis" and eventually passed into English as "pyxidis". Today, "pyxidis" is often used to refer to a small cylindrical metal container used to hold the Eucharistic bread in Christian religious ceremonies.
