(n) any object that can be used to hold things (especially a large metal boxlike object of standardized dimensions that can be loaded from one form of transport to another)
(n) a cargo ship designed to hold containerized cargoes, Syn. containership, container vessel, Example:the weight of the documentation of all the consignments on board a contemporary container ship can exceed 90 pounds
n. 1. One who, or that which, contains; particularly, an artifactual object that is designed to contain some fluid or solid material, object or objects, especially for convenience in transporting the contained objects. [ 1913 Webster ]
2. a large metallic box designed to hold many smaller boxes or packages, and used for convenience in loading and unloading large quantities of freight, such as on ships, trains, or airplanes. [ PJC ]