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.
Aluminum turns waste into power At industrial scale, Voya’s system is designed to produce up to 2 megawatts from a standard 20-foot container. — Neetika Walter, Interesting Engineering, 26 Aug. 2026 Allow the sauce to cool completely before storing in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. — ABC News, 26 Aug. 2026 Multiple sauce containers on the main cook line were seen without dates. — Rashad Alexander, Kansas City Star, 25 Aug. 2026 Keep water in shatterproof containers with airtight lids to prevent contamination. — Maria Sabella, Better Homes & Gardens, 25 Aug. 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
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Container.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/container. Accessed 1 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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