Definition of: vessel

(ves′əl) noun
1. A hollow receptacle of any form or material, especially one capable of holding a liquid.
2. A ship or craft designed to float on the water: usually one larger than a rowboat; also, an airship.
3. Biol. A duct or canal for containing or transporting a body fluid, as an artery, vein, etc.
4. Bot. A water–conducting tube in plants.
5. Figuratively, a person viewed as having capacity or fitness to receive or contain something; one who receives: chiefly in religious use: a vessel of mercy or of wrath. [<OF <L vascellum, dim. of vas a vessel]