Contents
/ˈkɒntents/
Definitions
3 meaningsThe things that are held or included in something; the substances or objects inside a container or the subject matter of a text or speech.
/ˈkɒntents/
The things that are held or included in something.
The contents of the letter were shocking.
💡 Simply: Imagine you open a gift box. The contents are all the cool things *inside* that make you happy! Like the toys you get from opening a present
👶 For kids: The things that are *inside* something, like a box or a book.
More Examples
Please review the contents of the package before signing.
The contents of the safe were never revealed.
The contents of the book are quite informative.
How It's Used
"The contents of the box were carefully examined."
"The contents page helps the reader navigate the book."
A table of sections and chapters that show where each item of information is located in a book or document.
/ˈkɒntents/
The main sections of a book or document.
The contents of the report were presented at the meeting.
💡 Simply: It's like the 'Table of Contents' at the beginning of a book! It tells you what you can find inside and on which pages.
👶 For kids: The list of all the chapters or parts in a book.
More Examples
Consult the contents to find the section you're interested in.
The contents of the website included news and articles.
How It's Used
"Refer to the contents page for a quick overview."
"The student was asked to summarize the contents of the article."
To satisfy or make someone happy or satisfied
/kənˈtent/
To satisfy someone
The small gift contented him.
💡 Simply: To make someone happy with a situation or a thing. You can content with a lot of things such as a gift, money, a favor.
👶 For kids: To make someone feel happy with what they have.
More Examples
The amount of money contented the employee.
The offer contented the client and he decided to close the deal.
How It's Used
"The argument was about the amount the customers were content with."
From Middle English *contenz*, from Old French *contens* (plural of *content*), from Latin *contentus* (past participle of *continere* 'to hold together, contain').
The word 'contents' has been used in English since the late 14th century, initially referring to what is contained within something. The meaning expanded to include the internal structure of written works by the 16th century.
Memory tip
Think of the things *held within* a box or a book.
Word Origin
"to hold together"