Containing
/kənˈteɪnɪŋ/
Definitions
2 meaningsTo have or hold something within.
/kənˈteɪn/
To hold or have within
The book contains a collection of short stories.
💡 Simply: Imagine a lunchbox: it *contains* your sandwich and apple. Anything that has something inside of it *contains* that thing!
👶 For kids: To have something inside it, like a box that contains toys.
More Examples
The museum contains many historical artifacts.
This recipe contains instructions and ingredients.
How It's Used
"The box contained all the necessary documents."
"The sample container contained the radioactive material."
"This meal contains all the essential vitamins."
To control or restrain something (usually an emotion).
/kənˈteɪn/
To control or restrain (oneself or a feeling)
He found it difficult to contain his frustration.
💡 Simply: Sometimes you feel super excited or angry, right? *Containing* means you try to keep those feelings inside instead of showing them to everyone.
👶 For kids: To keep something inside, like trying not to laugh when someone tells a funny joke.
More Examples
The security team worked to contain the unrest.
She tried to contain her laughter.
How It's Used
"She struggled to contain her excitement."
"He managed to contain his anger during the argument."
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
From Middle English *contenen*, from Old French *contenir* ('to hold, contain'), from Latin *continēre* ('to hold together, enclose'), from *con-* ('together') + *tenēre* ('to hold').
Historically, the word 'contain' has been used in various contexts from holding physical objects to restraining abstract concepts like emotions or situations.
Memory tip
Think of a *container* holding something. The verb *contain* means the same thing.
Word Origin
"to hold"