vessel
UK: ˈvɛs(ə)l | US: ˈvɛsəl
n. a hollow container used to hold liquids or other substances
n. a ship or large boat
n. (biology) a tube or duct in the body that carries blood or other fluids
The word "vessel" traces back to Latin vāscellum, meaning "a small container." Over time, it expanded semantically to include ships (as "containers" of cargo or people) and biological ducts (as "containers" of fluids). The dual meaning reflects the word's logical progression from physical containers to metaphorical ones.
The ceramic vessel was filled with fragrant olive oil.
The naval vessel patrolled the coast for unauthorized ships.
Blood vessels transport oxygen and nutrients throughout the body.
She carefully washed the vessel before using it for the experiment.
The ancient trading vessel was discovered intact at the seabed.