container

noun

con·​tain·​er kən-ˈtā-nər How to pronounce container (audio)
Synonyms of containernext
: 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 How to pronounce container (audio)
adjective

Synonyms of container

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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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Oddness, and constant change, invite discovery — a kind of architectural storytelling that makes this an appropriate container for the narrative art inside. — Los Angeles Times, 2 Sep. 2026 At Collective Retreats, there are 29 container suites and glamping tents available from May to November. — Jessica Chapel, Condé Nast Traveler, 2 Sep. 2026 This Season Any home baker knows that the key to keeping pastries soft and icing spreadable is to tuck your sweets into their own container. — Sophia Beams, Better Homes & Gardens, 2 Sep. 2026 Transfer to a fresh container covered with wet towels and some ice, then refrigerate until ready to use. — Claire Wadsworth, Bon Appetit Magazine, 1 Sep. 2026 See All Example Sentences for container

Word History

Etymology

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

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of container was in the 15th century

Phrases Containing container

Rhymes for container

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Browse Nearby Words

contained
container
containerboard
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Cite this Entry

“Container.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/container. Accessed 4 Sep. 2026.

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Kids Definition

container

noun
con·​tain·​er kən-ˈtā-nər How to pronounce container (audio)
: one that contains
especially : something into which other things can be put (as for storage)

More from Merriam-Webster on container

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about container

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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