Find Synonyms
contain Synonyms
Another word for contain
Choosing another word for contain depends on context, so the 25 synonyms and similar words below are separated across 3 exact definitions and ranked by match 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 hold up to fifty pounds of fresh produce."
Strongest
hold
Strong
accommodate
enclose
include
carry
incorporate
Weak
encompass
comprise
house
• 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 control the chemical spill before it reached the river."
Strongest
control
confine
Strong
curb
check
restrain
limit
stem
hold back
keep in check
suppress
• verb (Context 3)
To keep a strong emotion, impulse, or reaction under control and prevent it from showing.
Usage Example
"She could barely suppress her excitement when she opened the acceptance letter from the university."
Strongest
suppress
restrain
hold back
bottle up
Strong
repress
stifle
curb
conceal
hide
swallow
Opposites of contain
The opposite of contain shifts depending on context. Common opposites include:
express
vent
spread
unleash
exclude
release
let out
show
• Nearby Words
Cite this Entry
Wordmom. (2026). Synonyms for Contain. In Wordmom Thesaurus. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/synonyms/contain