container

noun

con·​tain·​er kən-ˈtā-nər 

: one that contains: such as

a

: a receptacle (such as a box or jar) for holding goods

b

: a portable compartment in which freight is placed (as on a train or ship) for convenience of movement

containerless

kən-ˈtā-nər-ləs 

adjective

Synonyms

• holder
• receptacle
• vessel

Examples of container in a Sentence

The tea leaves come in a small metal container.

bowls, boxes, jars, and other containers

The shipment of tools arrived at the dock in cargo containers yesterday.

Recent Examples on the Web

The session summary for the Ark includes the subject’s description of the target as a container with another container inside. —Amanda Kooser, Forbes.com, 29 Mar. 2025

In addition to diapers, the main compartment has enough room to fit a few small items, such as a travel container of wipes, hand sanitizer, and a snack. —Laura Lu, Ms, Parents, 29 Mar. 2025

How to Store Carrot Cake Overnight Oats Store the overnight oats in an airtight container or jar in the fridge for up to 3 days. —Sarah Martens, Better Homes & Gardens, 28 Mar. 2025

Preferably, leave any leftovers behind in an airtight container or covered plate. —Kaitlyn Yarborough, Southern Living, 27 Mar. 2025

Word History

Etymology

Middle English conteyner, from conteynen "to contain" + -er -er entry 2

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing container

• container port
• container ship

Rhymes for container

• abstainer
• campaigner
• complainer
• coplanar
• detainer
• maintainer
• nonplanar
• retainer
• sustainer
• entertainer
• gainer
• plainer

Kids Definition

container

noun

con·​tain·​er kən-ˈtā-nər 

: one that contains

especially : something into which other things can be put (as for storage)