WordLens

contain

1 of 1verb
/kənˈteɪn/
Forms:contains,containing,contained,contained
1

to have or hold something within or include something as a part of a larger entity or space

transitive
  • The box regularly contains various items like books and documents.
  • The box contains all the parts you need to assemble the table.
  • The cupboard contains dishes, cups, and other kitchenware.
  • The file contains the documents we need for the meeting.
  • The container contains a mixture of sand and salt, ready for use.
Synonyms:
bearcarryhold
2

to consist of or include several different elements or parts

transitive
  • The book contains stories from different cultures and traditions.
  • The course contains lessons on grammar, vocabulary, and pronunciation.
  • The orchestra contains musicians who play a variety of instruments.
  • The recipe contains a variety of spices to enhance the flavor.
  • The collection contains rare artifacts from ancient civilizations.
Synonyms:
incorporatecomprise
3

to hold back or manage one's emotions, actions, or impulses

transitive
  • She had to contain her excitement when she heard the good news.
  • He tried to contain his anger, but it was hard to stay calm.
  • He struggled to contain his frustration when things didn’t go as planned.
  • He contained his impatience, waiting for the results with as much composure as he could.
  • He contained his desire to speak out, not wanting to interrupt the speaker.
Synonyms:
hold incontrolcheckcurbmoderatehold
4

to stop or limit the growth or spread of a serious issue or problem

transitive
  • The authorities are doing everything they can to contain the outbreak of the disease.
  • The team managed to contain the damage after the floodwaters started rising.
  • Efforts to contain the wildfire have been unsuccessful due to strong winds.
  • The company took swift action to contain the security breach.
  • The military's intervention helped contain the conflict in the region.
Synonyms:
checkturn backarresthold backstop
5

(of a number) to be divisible by another number without leaving a remainder

transitive
  • Twelve contains three, as 12 divided by 3 equals 4.
  • The number 20 contains 5, because 20 divided by 5 results in a whole number.
  • Forty-eight contains eight, as it divides evenly without a remainder.
  • The number 72 contains 9, meaning it can be divided by 9 without any leftover.
  • The number 56 contains 7, since it divides exactly into 8.