laatikot

Laatikko is a Finnish noun meaning a box, container, or case. The plural laatikot refers to several such containers. The term covers a broad range of objects designed to enclose or organize contents, from small plastic lunch boxes and cardboard cartons to wooden chests, tool boxes, and larger shipping crates. In everyday language laatikko can also refer to an enclosure or housing for electronic devices or appliances.

In everyday use, laatikot are common for storage, transport, and organization. They are used to transport goods, store household items, or organize spaces such as kitchens, garages, and workshops. Materials vary and include plastic, metal, and wood, with sizes ranging from compact to substantial. The word also appears in phrases describing the outer housing or enclosure of devices and systems.

In Finnish cuisine, laatikko also denotes a baked dish, a casserole. Makaronilaatikko (macaroni casserole) and perunalaatikko (potato casserole) are traditional examples. These dishes are typically prepared by combining pasta or potatoes with milk, eggs, and often meat or vegetables, then baking until set. They are common in home cooking and are associated with family meals and holiday menus.

The term laatikko thus has multiple, context-dependent meanings: a physical container for storage or transport, an enclosure for devices, and a culinary casserole served as a main course in Finnish cooking.