Word
sandbox
Phoneticssand·box, stress on the first syllable
US/ˈsændˌbɑks/
UK/sˈændbɒks/
Countable noun
Definition
n. a safe place to test new ideas or software without causing damage to the real system. It can also mean a box filled with sand for children to play in.
n. a virtual environment for executing code or testing software in isolation from the host system. In a broader sense, it refers to a space or context that allows for open-ended experimentation and creative play.
Examples
“The developer tested the new app in a sandbox first.”
“Before deploying the security patch to the main server, the IT team ran it in a sandbox to check for bugs.”
“The game is praised for its sandbox mode, which grants players total freedom to manipulate the environment and craft their own objectives without following a linear story.”
Examples
simple
“The developer tested the new app in a sandbox first.”
contextual
“Before deploying the security patch to the main server, the IT team ran it in a sandbox to check for bugs.”
complex
“The game is praised for its sandbox mode, which grants players total freedom to manipulate the environment and craft their own objectives without following a linear story.”
Usage
Often used as a modifier before another noun, such as 'sandbox environment' or 'sandbox game'.
Real-World Examples
“Organizations can also offer AI sandboxes—safe, private environments where employees can experiment and learn how to use AI tools.” Etymology
From sand + box.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
Domains
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
- Frequency
- Occasional
- Level
- B2 · Upper Intermediate
- Updated
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QR code
englishreference.com/q/sandbox