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pyxis definition

pyxis (pik′sis)

noun pl. pyxides pyx′i·des′ (-si dēz′)

  1. a vase with a cover, used by the ancient Greeks and Romans
  2. a small box or case
  3. Bot. a dehiscent, dry fruit whose upper portion splits off as a lid, as the fruit of a pimpernel

Etymology: ME < L: see pyx

Pyxis definition

Pyxis (pik′sis)

noun

a S constellation between Puppis and Antlia

Etymology: ModL, short for Pyxis nautica, mariner's compass < L pyxis: see pyx

Webster's New World College Dictionary Copyright © 2005 by Wiley Publishing, Inc., Cleveland, Ohio.
Used by arrangement with John Wiley & Sons, Inc.

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