Stow: meaning, definitions and examples

Used when placing items carefully into a specific, usually small, space, often for transport or storage.

• Make sure to stow your luggage in the overhead compartment.
• The sailor needed to stow all the gear properly before setting sail.

Used when putting items away for future use, usually in a designated place like a warehouse, closet, or cupboard; implies a longer-term keeping.

• We need to store these documents in a safe place.
• The harvest is stored in the silo until it's needed.

Typically refers to placing items into bags, suitcases, or boxes in preparation for moving or travel; often involves organizing belongings.

• She needs to pack her clothes for the trip.
• Can you help me pack these gifts for shipping?

Commonly used when putting items onto or into a vehicle, container, or machine; implies the action of filling up.

• We need to load the furniture onto the moving truck.
• The workers are loading boxes into the cargo hold.

Appropriate when talking about placing items carefully in a specific area, often in a travel or storage context.

• She stowed her luggage in the overhead compartment.
• Please stow away all your equipment after use.

General term for making something difficult to see or find, can be used in both casual and serious contexts.

• The children hid behind the curtains during the game.
• He tried to hide his mistakes from his boss.

Usually refers to keeping items in a place where they can be used later, often with the implication of organization or care.

• You can store these files in the cabinet.
• Store the food in the refrigerator to keep it fresh.

Used when there is an intention to keep something hidden or secret from others. It has a slightly negative connotation as it implies hiding something on purpose.

• He concealed the letter under a pile of books.
• She tried to conceal her disappointment.