Bonbonniere

/ˌbɒnbɒˈnjeər/ noun

Definition

An ornamental box or decorative container used for holding bonbons, chocolates, or other candies, often made of wood, porcelain, or metal and used as a gift or decoration.

Etymology

From French 'bonbonnière', combining 'bonbon' (candy, from the reduplication of 'bon' meaning good, good) plus '-ière' (feminine suffix for containers or things that hold something).

Kelly Says

Bonbonnière is peak Victorian luxury—these fancy candy boxes were status symbols, and some collectors still hunt for antique ones worth hundreds of dollars! The word itself feels fancy because it's French and sounds like the tinkle of little chocolates.

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