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.
Samba received two vials of antivenin, and initial blood work appeared promising. — Gagandeep Singh, Sacbee.com, 26 Aug. 2026 Fragrance vials might prove a tad messier of an endeavor but just as fun to wear. — Daisy Shaw-Ellis, Vogue, 18 Aug. 2026 Our linen closet has long doubled as a medicine station — stocked with bronchodilators, pinworm pills, antiviral medication, pain relief patches, pulse oximeters and nebulizers, vials of Prednisone, even EpiPen injectors. — Allan Ripp, Chicago Tribune, 14 Aug. 2026 On a coffee table in front of her, a series of small vials and swabs are laid out. — Anna Russell, New Yorker, 14 Aug. 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 1 Sep. 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

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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