Definition of: contain

(kən·tān′) v.t.
1. To hold or enclose.
2. To include or comprise.
3. To be capable of containing; be able to hold.
4. To keep within bounds; restrain, as oneself or one's feelings.
5. Math. To be exactly divisible.
6. Mil. To hold, as an enemy, to a position or area, as by actual or feigned attacks. See synonyms under EMBRACE. [<OF contenir <L continere <com- together + tenere hold]
—con·tain′a·ble adjective
—con·tain′er noun