container

noun

con·​tain·​er kən-ˈtā-nər 

: 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 

adjective

Synonyms of container

• bin
• holder
• bag
• receptacle
• vessel
• box
• bottle

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

The containers all come with lids, can be stacked, and are designed with side handles for easy portability. —Isabel Garcia, PEOPLE, 2 Dec. 2025

This large size holds 790 pieces in one big storage container and includes an instruction book for a multitude of builds. —Hildara Araya, Parents, 1 Dec. 2025

Empty soil from clay or ceramic containers to prevent cracking. —Andy Wilcox, Better Homes & Gardens, 1 Dec. 2025

Store in an airtight container for an easy grab-and-go snack. —Lindsey Desoto, Health, 1 Dec. 2025

Word History

Etymology

Middle English conteyner, from conteynen "to contain" + -er -er entry 2

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing container

• container port
• container ship

Rhymes for container

• abstainer
• campaigner
• complainer
• coplanar
• detainer
• maintainer
• nonplanar
• retainer
• sustainer
• entertainer
• gainer
• plainer

Kids Definition

container

noun

con·​tain·​er kən-ˈtā-nər 

: one that contains

especially : something into which other things can be put (as for storage)