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 terms refer to a secure container within a bank's vault where valuables can be stored.
• Safe-deposit box is the more traditional and widely accepted term.
• Safety deposit box is a more modern variation but not universally accepted.
• Always think of safe-deposit as emphasizing the security aspect: safe.
• Remember that whether a box is called safe-deposit or safety deposit, it serves the same purpose.