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

Built from modular containers designed for reuse, the structure nods to Swarovski’s sustainability commitments. —Rhonda Richford, Footwear News, 17 Nov. 2025

Residents and visitors are urged to properly dispose of cigarette butts, matches, and any other flammable items in appropriate containers. —Nc Weather Bot, Charlotte Observer, 16 Nov. 2025

There’s something intensely satisfying about the way the pieces of fruit are nestled together mosaically in their container, the way jewel-like slivers of apricot or sultry curves of orange peek out from their chocolate shells. —Helen Rosner, New Yorker, 16 Nov. 2025

Cover tightly with foil or transfer portions to airtight containers, and refrigerate for up to three to four days. —Jasmine Smith, Southern Living, 16 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)