contain
verb (used with object)
to hold or include within its volume or area.
have contained
-
present perfectof contain.present perfect
Used to describe actions that started in the past and continue into or have direct relevance to the present.
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.
The Cube – a massive structure of flats and offices that could have contained the Empire State Building 20 times over – has been jettisoned entirely.
From BBC ● May 25, 2026
Prosecutors said his testimony may have contained discrepancies.
From Barron's ● Mar. 14, 2026
But the Clippers’ past five months have contained enough drama for a decade around many clubs, and the All-Star weekend will be a welcome opportunity for the team and its fans to catch their breath.
From Los Angeles Times ● Feb. 13, 2026
What family secrets or other revelations, we wonder, might they have contained?
From The Wall Street Journal ● Nov. 21, 2025
“This is probably hollow. It must have contained whatever that blue stuff in your arm is. What happened after you were shot?”
From "Insurgent" by Veronica Roth
