Contain

Definition

Contain is a verb. It means to have or hold something within, to control or restrain something, or to keep something within limits.

Parts of Speech

• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /kənˈteɪn/
• Respelling: kuhn-TAYN

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /kənˈteɪn/
• Respelling: kuhn-TAYN

Etymology

The word "contain" originates from the Latin "continere," meaning "to hold together," formed from "con-" (together) and "tenere" (to hold). It was introduced into English in the late Middle English period, meaning to have or include within itself.

Derivatives

• Container (noun)
• Containment (noun)
• Contained (adjective)
• Containable (adjective)
• Recontain (verb)

Synonyms

• Hold
• Enclose
• Restrain

Antonyms

• Release
• Exclude
• Unleash

Usage

The term "contain" is commonly used to describe holding something within or keeping something under control. For example, "The jar contains cookies," or "Efforts were made to contain the spread of the virus."

Related Terms

• Enclose: To surround or close off on all sides.
• Include: To have as part of a whole.
• Restrict: To limit or control the extent or action of something.

Detailed Definitions

Verb

• To have or hold something within: Refers to physically including or enclosing an item or substance inside something.
  • Example: "The box contains several books."
• To control or restrain: Refers to keeping something under control or preventing it from spreading or escaping.
  • Example: "Authorities are trying to contain the wildfire."
• To limit within boundaries: Describes keeping something within specific boundaries or limits.
  • Example: "The policy was designed to contain inflation."