container

UK: kənˈteɪnə | US: kənˈteɪnər

Definition
  1. n. a receptacle (such as a box or jar) for holding goods

  2. n. a large metal box used for transporting goods by ship, truck, or train

  3. n. (computing) a data structure or object that holds other elements

Structure
contain <hold>er <noun suffix indicating agent or tool>
Etymology

The word "container" derives from the verb "contain" (from Latin continēre, "to hold together," via Old French contenir), combined with the agentive suffix "-er." The Latin root con- (together) + tenēre (to hold) reflects the idea of holding items within a unified space. Over time, "container" evolved to specifically denote objects designed for storage or transport, emphasizing functionality.

Examples
  1. She stored the leftovers in an airtight container.

  2. The shipping container was loaded onto the cargo ship.

  3. This database acts as a container for all user information.

  4. Plastic containers are lightweight and durable.

  5. The museum displayed ancient artifacts in glass containers.