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 clever lid design on each container also allows the perfect amount of airflow to lock in freshness. —Alicia Geigel, Southern Living, 11 Nov. 2025

The toy has a clear container in its body that holds the glowing culture. —Hannah Millington, MSNBC Newsweek, 10 Nov. 2025

Shoppers are also going after this four-pack of Rubbermaid food storage containers, which can securely store leftovers and meal preparations in their sturdy, stackable silhouettes. —Clara McMahon, PEOPLE, 10 Nov. 2025

Use risers, lazy Susans, and clear containers to customize your pantry organization to your family's needs. —Emily Williams, Better Homes & Gardens, 9 Nov. 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)