vial

noun

vi·​al ˈvī(-ə)l How to pronounce vial (audio)
: a small closed or closable vessel especially for liquids

Examples of vial in a Sentence

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.
According to Medoza, Peters also implied that the vial of medication, which is not approved by the FDA, also included a blend of drugs, including methamphetamine. Ct Jones, Rolling Stone, 8 May 2026 Subscribers receive an 8-ml vial each month (about a month’s supply), delivered to their door. Fairchild Studio, Footwear News, 8 May 2026 In other words, one vial of what’s supposedly the same substance would not necessarily be the same as the next, even if it were made by the same producer. Flynn McGuire, The Conversation, 7 May 2026 Glimpse the vials stowed beside the eggs in the fridge. Literary Hub, 29 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for vial

Word History

Etymology

Middle English fiole, viole, from Anglo-French, from Late Latin fiola, alteration of Latin phiala — more at phial

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of vial was in the 14th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Vial.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/vial. Accessed 12 May. 2026.

Kids Definition

vial

noun
vi·​al ˈvī(-ə)l How to pronounce vial (audio)
: a small container (as for medicines) made usually of glass or plastic

Medical Definition

vial

noun
vi·​al ˈvī(-ə)l How to pronounce vial (audio)
: a small closed or closable vessel especially for liquids

called also phial

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