Source : WordNet®

sandbox
     n 1: mold consisting of a box with sand shaped to mold metal
     2: plaything consisting of a pile of sand or a box filled with
        sand for children to play in [syn: {sandpile}]

Source : Free On-Line Dictionary of Computing

sandbox
     
        (UK: "sandpit")
     
        1.  A protected, limited environment where
        applications (e.g. {Java} programs downloaded from the
        {Internet}) are allowed to "play" without risking damage to
        the rest of the system.
     
        2.  A term for the R&D department at many software and
        computer companies (where hackers in commercial environments
        are likely to be found).  The term is half-derisive, but
        reflects the truth that research is a form of creative play.
     
        Compare {playpen}.
     
        3.  {link farm}.
     
        [{Jargon File}]
     
        (2001-02-08)