Contain
Definition, Meaning & Examples
Pronunciation /kənˈteɪn/ · Part of speech verb
Quick meaning: Contain is a verb meaning (transitive) To hold inside.
Meaning
(transitive) To hold inside.
More Meanings
- (transitive) To include as a part.
- (transitive) To put constraints upon; to restrain; to confine; to keep within bounds.
- (mathematics, of a set etc., transitive) To have as an element or subset.
- (obsolete, intransitive) To restrain desire; to live in continence or chastity.
Example Sentences
a spray bottle containing water.
Most of the meals they offer contain meat.
I'm so excited, I can hardly contain myself!
Fear not, my lord: we can contain ourselves.
Word Forms
- contains
- containing
- contained
Synonyms for contain
Depending on context, synonyms include enclose, inhold, comprise, embody, incorporate, control.
Antonyms for contain
Common opposites include exclude, omit, release, vent.
Related Words
Related dictionary entries include carry, hold, take, comprise, control, arrest.
Related Dictionary Tools
Sources & Attribution
FreeDictionaryAPI.com / Wiktionary · Original source · CC BY-SA 4.0
Dictionary data is provided by FreeDictionaryAPI.com and sourced from Wiktionary under its stated license.