An area, usually enclosed by a frame and filled with sand, that serves as a place for children to play, especially on playgrounds or in gardens.
example
Die Kinder bauten im Sandkasten eine große Burg.
The children built a big castle in the sandbox.
Usage tips
Word composition
The word is a simple compound of 'der Sand' (sand) and 'der Kasten' (box). So it literally describes a box filled with sand.
EXAMPLE
Auf dem Spielplatz gibt es einen großen Sandkasten mit einer Rutsche.
There is a large sandbox with a slide on the playground.
Context clue
You can easily recognize the meaning from the context. If it is about children, playing, or gardens, it refers to the play area. If it is about computers, programs, or security, it refers to the isolated test environment.
EXAMPLE
Meine Tochter spielt am liebsten im Sandkasten.
My daughter likes playing in the sandbox best.
Metaphorical meaning
The IT meaning is a metaphor. Just as children play in a sandbox without making the surroundings dirty, programs can run in an IT sandbox without damaging the system.
EXAMPLE
Sicherheitssoftware führt unbekannte Programme oft zuerst in einem Sandkasten aus.
Security software often runs unknown programs in a sandbox first.
Typical verbs
In connection with the play area for children, the verbs 'im Sandkasten spielen' (to play in the sandbox), 'eine Burg bauen' (to build a castle), or 'mit Sand backen' (to make pretend baked goods with sand) are often used.
EXAMPLE
Die beiden Kinder haben stundenlang im Sandkasten gebuddelt.