# containing

/kənˈteɪnɪŋ/ (US) · /kəntˈeɪnɪŋ/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/containing
Updated: 2026-06-19

## Senses

### 1. holding something inside

verb · CEFR A2

having something inside or as a part of it.

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

- She found an old box containing letters from her grandfather.
- The laboratory technician handled the vial containing the volatile chemical with extreme caution, ensuring the seal remained intact throughout the procedure.

### 2. controlling a feeling

verb · CEFR B2

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

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

- He had a hard time containing his excitement when he heard the news.
- The emergency services focused their efforts on containing the fire within the warehouse to prevent it from reaching the adjacent residential blocks.

### 3. the things inside

noun · CEFR C1 · Formal · Technical

the items or substances held inside a container.

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

- The customs officer checked the containings of the wooden crate.
- 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.

## Examples

- The box is containing all my old books.
- The police found a suspicious envelope containing a mysterious white powder and several handwritten notes.
- A balanced diet containing a variety of whole grains, lean proteins, and leafy greens is essential for maintaining long-term cardiovascular health.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.