contain
verb (used with object)
to hold or include within its volume or area.
had contained
-
past perfectof contain.past perfect
Used to express a completed action that took place before another specific past action occurred.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Supply risks to crude continue to increase, the analysts add, noting that Saudi Arabia said it had contained a fire near its biggest export terminal at Ras Tanura following an attack on the region.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Oct. 28, 2026
Since the one-match evening sessions were introduced in 2021, only four of the first 60 slots on Court Philippe Chatrier had contained a women's match.
From BBC ● May 31, 2026
The latest incident near what is usually the world's busiest airport for international travel affected a fuel tank, the Dubai media office said, later adding that authorities had contained the fire and reporting no injuries.
From Barron's ● Mar. 16, 2026
If the early universe had contained perfectly equal amounts of both, everything would have disappeared.
From Science Daily ● Mar. 3, 2026
It was chilly and dark, even on a sunny afternoon, with many more books than even the library at Swanburne had contained.
From "The Incorrigible Children of Ashton Place: Book I: The Mysterious Howling" by Maryrose Wood
