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 California Attorney General's Office warns that firearms should be stored in a locked container and locked with a firearms safety device. —Natalie Neysa Alund, USA TODAY, 17 Dec. 2024

Transfer to an airtight container and let cool completely. —Martin Sorge, Chicago Tribune, 16 Dec. 2024

Flaxseed oil should be stored in a glass container in the refrigerator to maximize its freshness.2 Flaxseed oil can be used in baked foods like muffins and bagels. —Chelsea Rae Bourgeois, Rdn, Health, 16 Dec. 2024

The New York City Police Department issued preemptive warnings via social media, reminding participants that open containers remain prohibited on city streets and that impeding pedestrian or vehicular traffic could result in citations. —Stephan Pechdimaldji, Newsweek, 14 Dec. 2024

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

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)