vial

noun

vi·​al ˈvī(-ə)l How to pronounce vial (audio)
: a small closed or closable vessel especially for liquids

Examples of vial in a Sentence

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.
Two small slots on each of those sides are there to hold available tritium vials so that the Apex V2 glows, making it (and the release buttons) easier to find in the dark. — New Atlas, 22 Oct. 2026 Consumers are gambling with their health, with no way of knowing when a dangerous vial may arrive at their door. — Adam Yamaguchi, CBS News, 21 Oct. 2026 When Familiars last showed at the Tate in the ’90s, one of the vials did crack, resulting in the whole gallery being evacuated. — Hikmat Mohammed, ARTnews.com, 8 Oct. 2026 Advertisement Kinkade’s vial of tirzepatide, for instance, included the vitamin B12. — Alana Semuels, Time, 7 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for vial

Word History

Etymology

Middle English fiole, viole, from Anglo-French, from Late Latin fiola, alteration of Latin phiala — more at phial

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of vial was in the 14th century

Rhymes for vial

See All Rhymes for vial

Browse Nearby Words

viajaca
vial
Via Lactea
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Vial.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/vial. Accessed 27 Oct. 2026.

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Kids Definition

vial

noun
vi·​al ˈvī(-ə)l How to pronounce vial (audio)
: a small container (as for medicines) made usually of glass or plastic

Medical Definition

vial

noun
vi·​al ˈvī(-ə)l How to pronounce vial (audio)
: a small closed or closable vessel especially for liquids

called also phial

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