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 Patients also had trouble getting vials of Lilly’s Humalog for several months earlier this year. Elaine Chen, STAT, 17 July 2024 The other four companies sent vials of semaglutide. Kate Knibbs, WIRED, 12 July 2024 That accounts for not just the vial itself, but for supplies like rubbing alcohol, gauze, refrigeration and other overhead costs in medical facilities. Erika Edwards, NBC News, 11 July 2024 Higher temperatures can also cause open vials of insulin, a diabetic treatment that should be kept at room temperature, to lose its potency. Tiffani Jackson, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 5 July 2024 See all Example Sentences for vial 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'vial.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

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

Dictionary Entries Near vial

Cite this Entry

“Vial.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/vial. Accessed 27 Jul. 2024.

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

More from Merriam-Webster on vial

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