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 adjective

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.
Remember to wash and sterilize any bottles, scoops, or mixing containers by running them through the dishwasher or using hot soapy water. Sarah Scott, Parents, 15 June 2026 To ensure freshness, make the base in a big pitcher (or lidded container) and store in the fridge. Nina Moskowitz, Bon Appetit Magazine, 15 June 2026 In August 2023, he was stopped and accused of driving under the influence, driving with an open container of alcohol, failing to stop at a stop sign and other infractions, according to court documents. Talia Soglin, Chicago Tribune, 15 June 2026 The radar fits in a standard 20-foot shipping container, so it can be moved by truck, plane, or ship. Sujita Sinha, Interesting Engineering, 15 June 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

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Container.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/container. Accessed 16 Jun. 2026.

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)

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