kənˈteɪn v.tr. 1 hold or be
capable of
holding within itself;
include,
comprise. 2 (of measures)
consist of or be
equal to (a
gallon contains
eight pints). 3
prevent (an
enemy,
difficulty, etc.)
from moving or extending. 4
control or
restrain (oneself, one's feelings, etc.). 5 (of a number) be
divisible by (a factor)
without a
remainder. øøcontainable adj. [ME f. OF contenir f. L continere content(as
com-, tenere hold)]