ENGLISH
REFERENCE

vase

n. · v.
US //ˈvɑz// UK //vˈɑːz// vase
  1. 1 flower container (n.)
    A2 Elementary

    an open container used for holding flowers or for decoration.

    an upright, open container, often made of glass, ceramic, or stone, used primarily for displaying flowers or as an ornament.

    Example

    He put the fresh roses in a tall glass vase on the dining table.

    Example

    The museum curator carefully handled the Ming dynasty vase, noting the intricate blue patterns that had remained vibrant for centuries.
  2. 2 architecture (n.)
    C2 Proficiency Technical Architecture

    the main middle part of the top of a tall column.

    the central body or 'bell' of a Corinthian capital, around which the decorative leaves are arranged.

    Example

    The architect pointed out the detailed carvings on the vase of the column.

    Example

    In classical architecture, the vase of the Corinthian capital provides the structural core for the elaborate acanthus leaf motifs.
  3. 3 to put in a vase (v.)
    C2 Proficiency Technical Horticulture

    to put flowers or plants into a vase.

    to place flowers or decorative foliage into a vase or similar ornamental container.

    Example

    After cutting the lilies from the garden, she vased them immediately.

    Example

    The florist vased the exotic blooms with precision, ensuring the stems were cut at an angle to maximise water absorption.

    Usage

    The verb is transitive and requires a direct object.
Origin

Borrowed from Middle French vase, from Latin vās. Doublet of vas.

Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.

Related words

Last updated June 20, 2026