Safe-deposit box vs. Safety deposit box

Safe-deposit box

/ˈseɪf dɪˈpɒzɪt bɒks/

A secure box in a bank where valuable items can be stored.

Examples:

She stored her deeds in the safe-deposit box at her bank.When traveling, a safe-deposit box can secure valuables.They found the will hidden in the old safe-deposit box.

Synonyms:

strongboxvaultlockbox

Antonyms:

This word has no antonyms

Safety deposit box

/ˈseɪfti dɪˈpɒzɪt bɒks/

A secure container, usually in a bank, used to store valuable items.

Examples:

Reserving a safety deposit box for her will was vital.He stored family heirlooms in a safety deposit box.The safety deposit box held the company’s backup drives.

Synonyms:

vaultstrongbox

Antonyms:

This word has no antonyms

Ways to tell them apart:

• Both safe-deposit box and safety deposit box refer to the same secure container typically found within a bank or secure facility.
• The main difference is primarily in the terminology or preferred usage by region or institution.
• Safe-deposit box is the more traditional term and considered more formally correct.
• Some people might use safety deposit box interchangeably, but this can be viewed as a less formal alternative.
• When writing formally or when accuracy is important, use safe-deposit box to avoid any ambiguity.