Big box is a term that has become increasingly popular in recent years, particularly in the retail industry. It is a term that is used to describe large retail stores that are typically located in out-of-town locations and offer a wide range of products at discounted prices. In this article, we will explore the definition and meaning of big box, its origin, and how it is used in different contexts.
Definitions
The term big box refers to a large, standalone retail store that typically covers a floor area of between 50,000 and 200,000 square feet. These stores are often located on the outskirts of towns and cities, and they offer a wide range of products, including electronics, clothing, and groceries. The term is also used to describe the physical appearance of these stores, which are often characterized by their large, box-like structures.
Origin
The term big box originated in the United States in the 1980s and 1990s when large discount retailers such as Walmart and Target began to expand rapidly. These retailers built large, standalone stores that were often located on the outskirts of towns and cities, and they quickly became known as big box stores. The term has since been adopted by retailers in other countries, including Canada, Australia, and the United Kingdom.
Meaning in different dictionaries
The meaning of big box can vary slightly depending on the dictionary you consult. The Merriam-Webster dictionary defines big box as “a large, often windowless building housing a retail store or stores.” The Oxford English Dictionary defines it as “a large, single-storey retail store, typically with a plain exterior and a warehouse-style interior.” The Cambridge English Dictionary defines it as “a large retail store, often with a plain design and no windows.”
Associations
The term big box is often associated with large, discount retailers such as Walmart, Target, and Costco. These retailers are known for their low prices and wide range of products, and they have become a popular destination for consumers looking to save money on their shopping. However, the term can also be used to describe other types of large retail stores, including home improvement stores, sporting goods stores, and electronics stores.
Synonyms
There are several synonyms for big box, including superstore, hypermarket, and megastore. These terms are often used interchangeably with big box to describe large retail stores that offer a wide range of products at discounted prices.
Antonyms
The antonyms of big box are small store, boutique, and specialty store. These terms are used to describe smaller, more specialized retail stores that offer a limited range of products at higher prices.
The same root words
The term big box does not have any root words, as it is a compound word made up of two separate words. However, the word box is derived from the Old English word box, which means “container.”
Example Sentences
- “I need to buy a new TV, so I’m going to head to the big box store on the edge of town.”
- “The big box retailer is known for its low prices and wide selection of products.”
- “I prefer to shop at small, independent stores rather than big box stores.”
- “The new big box store is expected to create hundreds of new jobs in the area.”
- “The city council is considering a proposal to limit the size of new big box stores in the city.”