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

• holder
• receptacle
• vessel

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

Use a sharpie to note the date of when it was opened on the container. —Alana Al-Hatlani, Southern Living, 9 Feb. 2025

The plastic in the container is high-quality food-grade plastic that is BPA-free, phthalate-free and lead-free. —Nora Colomer, Fox News, 8 Feb. 2025

Used mixing bowls and a container of chicken base paste were stored on top of clean plates used to serve customers. —Camila Pedrosa, Sacramento Bee, 7 Feb. 2025

Make this ahead and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for a day or two before serving. —Sarah Martens, Better Homes & Gardens, 7 Feb. 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

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)