purdonium

noun

pur·​do·​ni·​um

ˌpərˈdōnēəm

variants or less commonly purdonian

-ēən

or purdonion

-ēən

plural -s

British

: a container for coal in the form of a box with removable metal lining

Word History

Etymology

probably from Purdon, name of its inventor

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

1. Expanded definitions
2. Detailed etymologies
3. Advanced search tools
4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now