# vase

/ˈvɑz/ (US) · /vˈɑːz/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/vase
Updated: 2026-06-20

## Senses

### 1. flower container

noun · CEFR A2

an open container used for holding flowers or for decoration.

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

- He put the fresh roses in a tall glass vase on the dining table.
- The museum curator carefully handled the Ming dynasty vase, noting the intricate blue patterns that had remained vibrant for centuries.

### 2. architecture

noun · CEFR C2 · Technical

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

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

- The architect pointed out the detailed carvings on the vase of the column.
- In classical architecture, the vase of the Corinthian capital provides the structural core for the elaborate acanthus leaf motifs.

### 3. to put in a vase

verb · CEFR C2 · Technical

to put flowers or plants into a vase.

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

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

## Examples

- She put fresh roses in the glass vase.
- The ceramic vase on the mantelpiece held a small arrangement of dried lavender.
- The intricate blue-and-white porcelain vase, dating back to the Ming Dynasty, stood as the centerpiece of the museum's exhibition.

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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.