Definition

A person who collects matchbooks or matchboxes, often as a hobby or for display.

Example

As a phillumenist, she had an impressive collection of matchboxes from around the world.

Conversation

I just found out there's a group for phillumenists in our city.

Really? I didn’t even know that was a thing!

Yeah, they collect all sorts of matchbooks and labels.

That sounds interesting! I wonder how many people actually join.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Phillumenist → It is formed from "phillumeny" (from Greek "philos" meaning loving and Latin "lumen" meaning light) and the suffix "-ist" (meaning one who practices or is concerned with). A phillumenist is someone who loves collecting matchbox labels or match-related items, combining the love of light (as matches produce light) with the act of collecting.

Memory Tip

Think of someone who 'loves' ('philos') 'light' ('lumen') and collects items related to it — that's what a phillumenist does.

Visually Confused Words