An "icebox" is a type of insulated container used to keep food and beverages cold. Before the invention of modern refrigerators, iceboxes were commonly used in homes. They typically required a block of ice, which was placed in a compartment to cool the interior. The cold air from the melting ice helped preserve perishable items. Iceboxes were often made of wood and lined with metal or other insulating materials. They came in various sizes and designs, catering to different household needs. While they have largely been replaced by electric refrigerators, iceboxes are still appreciated for their simplicity and effectiveness in keeping items cool without electricity.