I. ˈflask, -aa(ə)-, -ai-, -ȧ- noun
( -s )
Usage: often attributive
Etymology: Middle French flasque powder flask, probably modification of Old Spanish frasco powder flask, flask for liquids, modification of Late Latin flascon-, flasco bottle, probably of Germanic origin; akin to Old English flasce, flaxe bottle, Old High German & Old Norse flaska; perhaps derivative from the root of Old High German flehtan to braid, plait — more at ply
1. : a vessel (as of metal, glass, skin) somewhat narrowed or necked toward the outlet, often fitted with a stopper, cap, or other closure, and used as a container: as
a. : a container usually of horn, metal, or leather used to carry powder for a muzzle-loading firearm
b. : a necked vessel for holding liquids ; especially : a broad flattened vessel of metal or sometimes glass curved to fit a pocket and used especially to carry alcoholic beverages on the person
c. : a standard iron container in which 76 pounds of mercury is sold ; also : a unit of weight for mercury equal to 76 pounds
d. : any of various usually blown-glass vessels used for technical purposes in a laboratory
2. : a wooden or metal frame that holds the sand forming the mold used in a foundry
II. transitive verb
( -ed/-ing/-s )
: to enclose in a flask ; especially : to place (a denture) in a flask for processing