noun
soapbox
SOHP-boks
Soapbox (noun) means a makeshift platform someone stands on to give an impromptu speech, or, figuratively, any opportunity to voice strong opinions. Example: “He climbed on his soapbox again about local politics.”
noun
1
A makeshift platform someone stands on to give an impromptu speech, or, figuratively, any opportunity to voice strong opinions.
"The madman obtained a soapbox which he stood on at the corner of Broadway and Wall street, to shout out his prophecy of the end of the world."
"He climbed on his soapbox again about local politics."
How to use soapbox
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA platform (real or figurative) for airing your opinions loudly and repeatedly.
Common pairings
get on a soapbox
soapbox speech
Vocabulary Flow
Build your vocabulary from words like soapbox.
Vocabulary Flow serves the next word, and the next — meaning, pronunciation and an example each time. Practice at your level, or learn English in your own language.
Start vocabulary practice
Word forms
- Plural
- soapboxes
- Third person singular
- soapboxes
- Past tense
- soapboxed
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
He climbed on his _____ again about local politics.
Etymology
Originally a literal wooden crate used for shipping soap, which people would stand on in public to make speeches.
Related words
Frequently asked questions
What does “soapbox” mean?
The word “soapbox” means a makeshift platform someone stands on to give an impromptu speech, or, figuratively, any opportunity to voice strong opinions. In plain terms, a platform (real or figurative) for airing your opinions loudly and repeatedly.
How do you pronounce “soapbox”?
“Soapbox” is pronounced SOHP-boks (/ˈsəʊpbɒks/ in IPA).
How do you use “soapbox” in a sentence?
Here is “soapbox” used in a sentence: “He climbed on his soapbox again about local politics.”
What part of speech is “soapbox”?
“Soapbox” is a noun.
Featured in
Vocabulary lists that include soapbox:
