What does "containing" mean?

1. (holding something inside) having something inside or as a part of it. 2. (controlling a feeling) keeping a feeling or a situation under control so it does not spread or get worse. 3. (the things inside) the items or substances held inside a container.

How do you use "containing"?

Usually appears in the plural form 'containings' in formal or technical inventories.

containing

v. · n.

US //kənˈteɪnɪŋ// UK //kəntˈeɪnɪŋ// con·tain·ing

1 holding something inside (v.)
A2 Elementary

having something inside or as a part of it.

functioning as a verb of inclusion, indicating that one entity holds or comprises another.

Example

She found an old box containing letters from her grandfather.

Example

The laboratory technician handled the vial containing the volatile chemical with extreme caution, ensuring the seal remained intact throughout the procedure.
- excluding
- omitting
2 controlling a feeling (v.)
B2 Upper Intermediate

keeping a feeling or a situation under control so it does not spread or get worse.

restraining or controlling an emotion, or preventing the expansion of a physical threat.

Example

He had a hard time containing his excitement when he heard the news.

Example

The emergency services focused their efforts on containing the fire within the warehouse to prevent it from reaching the adjacent residential blocks.
- releasing
- spreading

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3 the things inside (n.)
C1 Advanced Formal Technical

the items or substances held inside a container.

the contents of a vessel or space; typically used in the plural form in this sense.

Example

The customs officer checked the containings of the wooden crate.

Example

A detailed inventory of the containings of the ancient tomb was compiled by the archaeological team before any items were moved to the museum.

Usage

Usually appears in the plural form 'containings' in formal or technical inventories.
- contents
- items