Receptacle: meaning, definitions and examples

Typically used in formal or technical contexts to refer to an object that holds something. Often used in scientific, medical, or specialized fields.

• The laboratory specimen was placed in a sterile receptacle
• The floral receptacle supports the reproductive organs of the plant

A general term used to describe any object that can hold, carry, or store things. Commonly used in everyday language.

• Put the leftover food in a container and refrigerate it
• We need more containers for storage in the garage

Used to describe a container, especially one that can hold liquids. Often found in literary or formal contexts.

• The artist poured water into a clay vessel
• The ship is a large maritime vessel

Used to refer to an object that holds or supports something in place. Frequently used for items designed specifically for holding certain objects.

• She placed the toothbrush in its holder
• The candle holder is made of brass

Can refer to a specific part of a plant where the floral organs grow, commonly used in botanical science.

• The petals and stamens are attached to the receptacle.
• She studied the structure of the flower, focusing on the receptacle.

Best used specifically when talking about a container for holding cut flowers, usually in a more casual or everyday context.

• She arranged the roses beautifully in the flower base.
• The flower base on the dining table was filled with fresh daisies.

Used to refer specifically to the part of the flower that supports the bloom, often in botanical or gardening contexts.

• Trim the flower stem before placing it in water.
• The flower stem was delicate and needed careful handling.