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.
When choosing water containers, the material makes a difference. Christina Manian, Better Homes & Gardens, 29 Dec. 2025 Plant these in window boxes and containers for reliable seasonal color and interest. Arricca Elin Sansone, Southern Living, 29 Dec. 2025 Perhaps Ukraine’s biggest drone success in 2025 was Operation Spider, a complex covert operation that saw shipping containers placed within FPV range of Russia’s heavy bomber airfields in Siberia. Brady Knox, The Washington Examiner, 28 Dec. 2025 Opt for this set of Rubbermaid food storage containers to keep meal prep and leftovers fresh and organized in the fridge, then grab this handheld milk frother to whip creamy foam at home. Isabel Garcia, PEOPLE, 28 Dec. 2025 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 31 Dec. 2025.

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

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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