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.
Inside the walk-in cooler, a gray plastic container was cracked. — David J. Neal, Miami Herald, 28 Oct. 2026 The Shrewsbury Police Department issued Minardi a citation for open container of alcohol. — Matt Schooley, CBS News, 27 Oct. 2026 Fruits must be pre-cut and placed in containers, tamales wrapped in foil, elote pre-assembled in styrofoam cups. — Zareen Syed, Chicago Tribune, 27 Oct. 2026 In wider containers, those can sit just out of the blades’ reach. — Editors Of Bon Appétit, Bon Appetit Magazine, 27 Oct. 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 28 Oct. 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

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