Find Antonyms
contain Antonyms
Opposite of contain
Because the opposite of contain shifts with each meaning, the 15 antonyms and opposite words below are separated across 3 exact definitions and ranked by contrast strength.
• verb (Context 1)
To have or hold someone or something within a space, volume, or boundary.
Usage Example
"Each wooden crate is designed to exclude up to fifty pounds of fresh produce."
Strongest
exclude
Strong
omit
empty
discharge
eject
• verb (Context 2)
To control, restrain, or prevent something harmful or undesirable from spreading or expanding.
Usage Example
"Emergency crews worked throughout the night to spread the chemical spill before it reached the river."
Strongest
spread
unleash
Strong
release
free
escalate
• verb (Context 3)
To keep a strong emotion, impulse, or reaction under control and prevent it from showing.
Usage Example
"She could barely express her excitement when she opened the acceptance letter from the university."
Strongest
express
vent
Strong
release
let out
show
display
unleash
Similar words to contain
Words similar to contain shift depending on context. Common synonyms include:
hold
suppress
restrain
control
hold back
confine
bottle up
curb
• Nearby Words
Cite this Entry
Wordmom. (2026). Antonyms for Contain. In Wordmom Thesaurus. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/antonyms/contain