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

With a high, stable energy supply, the ship could support a larger number of these power-hungry containers, giving operators greater flexibility to handle cargo demand. —Sujita Sinha, Interesting Engineering, 9 Mar. 2026

Regular agreements become supportive containers rather than constrictive walls. —Tarot.com, New York Daily News, 8 Mar. 2026

The Six-inch diameter elevated platform can hold a mixing bowl or container while still allowing for readability of the display. —Adam Campbell-Schmitt, Bon Appetit Magazine, 8 Mar. 2026

Flavor Bourbon Combine 2 cups bourbon and ¼ cup liquid bacon fat in a sealable, freezer-safe container. —Josh Miller, Southern Living, 8 Mar. 2026

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)