pax

noun

ˈpaks  ˈpäks 

1

: a tablet decorated with a sacred figure (as of Christ) and sometimes ceremonially kissed by participants at mass

2

: the kiss of peace in the Mass

3

: peace

especially, Pax : a period of general stability in international affairs under the influence of dominant military power

—usually used in combination with a latinized name

Pax Americana

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Medieval Latin, from Latin, peace — more at peace

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1