Contain Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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contain

[kənˈteɪn ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Verb}

in a sentence

To contain means to hold or have within. It can refer to physically enclosing something, such as putting items in a box, or to include something as a part of a larger whole.

Synonyms

embrace, enclose, hold, include.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
contain	Use when referring to something having or holding something within itself, often for physical objects or abstract ideas. The bottle contains water The story contains a surprising twist
hold	General term for having or keeping something in one's hand or within one's grasp, also for maintaining a position or state. Can you hold my bag for a moment? The team holds the top position in the league
include	Useful when something is part of a whole or a list, emphasizing that it is counted or considered as part of a group. The tour package includes meals and accommodations The report includes data from various sources
enclose	Appropriate when something is surrounded or closed off on all sides, often physically. Frequently used in the context of letters and packages. Please enclose your resume with the application The garden is enclosed by a wooden fence
embrace	Best used when referring to holding someone closely in one's arms as a sign of affection, or metaphorically to accept or adopt an idea or change willingly. She embraced her old friend warmly He eagerly embraced the new technology

Examples of usage

The box contains all the items I need for the trip.
This book contains valuable information about the history of the region.
The report should contain detailed analysis of the data.
Our team will contain experts from various fields.
The package contains instructions on how to assemble the furniture.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

in a sentence

In the context of biology, a container is a receptacle for holding items, usually liquids or specimens, such as a test tube or a petri dish.

Synonyms

holder, receptacle, vessel.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
contain	Use when referring to something holding or having within itself. Often implies keeping something within limits. This bottle contains water. The book contains valuable information.
receptacle	Formal term for any container that holds objects or substances. Often used in technical or official contexts. Please throw the trash in the receptacle. The receptacle for donations is near the entrance.
vessel	Describes a container, especially one used for holding liquids. Can also refer to ships or large containers. The vessel was filled with oil. They sailed on a large vessel across the ocean.
holder	Refers to something designed to hold another object in place or keep it secure, often used for practical items. She placed the pencil in the holder. The cardholder keeps all your IDs organized.

Examples of usage

The scientist placed the sample in a sterile container.
The lab technician labeled each container with a unique code.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Science

In chemistry, a container must be chosen carefully to hold substances without leaking or reacting.
Many living organisms can contain various elements essential for life, such as proteins and enzymes.
In ecology, a container can refer to natural environments that hold ecosystems, like lakes or forests.

Literature

In poetry, the idea of containment often symbolizes emotions or thoughts that are kept inside.
Classic stories frequently use containers (like treasure chests) as symbols of hidden potential or secrets.
Many novels explore themes of containment, such as characters struggling with inner conflicts or societal limitations.

Pop Culture

Movies often use physical containers (like locked boxes) as plot devices to create suspense or mystery.
The popular TV show 'Breaking Bad' features chemical containment in various illegal activities, illustrating real-life consequences.
In video games, containers often hold valuable items or resources that drive the storyline forward.

Psychology

The concept of emotional containment refers to the ability of individuals to manage and hold their feelings in a healthy way.
Therapeutic practices often encourage clients to 'contain' their thoughts to process emotions without becoming overwhelmed.
Group therapies frequently use the idea of containment to help people feel safe sharing personal experiences.

Origin of 'contain'

Main points about word origin

The word 'contain' comes from the Latin 'contenere', which means 'to hold together'.
It was first used in English around the 14th century, entering the language through Old French.
The prefix 'con-' means 'with' or 'together', while 'tain' comes from 'tenere', meaning 'to hold'.

The word 'contain' has its origins in Middle English, derived from the Latin word 'contineo', meaning 'to hold together'. Over time, the meaning of 'contain' has evolved to encompass a wide range of contexts, from physical containment to abstract inclusion. The versatility of the word has made it a fundamental part of the English language, used in various fields such as science, literature, and everyday conversation.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #1,309, this word is part of core intermediate vocabulary. It appears regularly in various contexts and is essential for natural-sounding English.

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1306 accept
1307 possession
1308 properly
1309 contain
1310 proportion
1311 milk
1312 conclusion
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