v.tr. 1 hold or be capable of holding within itself; include, comprise. 2 (of measures) consist of or be equal to (a gallon contains eight pints). 3 prevent (an enemy, difficulty, etc.) from moving or extending. 4 control or restrain (oneself, one's feelings, etc.). 5 (of a number) be divisible by (a factor) without a remainder. containable adj.
[ ME f. OF contenir f. L continere content- (as com-, tenere hold) ]