verb

contain

to contain, to include, to hold, to control

This box contains old books.

This box contains old books.

The report contains important information.

The report contains important information.

She could not contain her excitement.

She could not contain her excitement.

((sth.)) to have or hold (sth.) within This box contains old books.

((sth.)) to control or restrain (a feeling) She could not contain her excitement.

Synonyms: include, hold, comprise; Antonyms: exclude, release

From Latin 'con-' (together) + 'tenere' (to hold). Literally 'to hold together'.

A 'container' is something that 'contains' things. The noun is a great clue to the verb's meaning.

This page is designed for learning support. Please use it as a learning reference, not as a formal reference.