Thermos

/ˈθɜːrməs/

Meaning & Definition

noun
A container that keeps liquids hot or cold by using a vacuum between two walls.
I poured my hot coffee into the thermos before heading out for the day.
A trademarked term for such a container, often used generically.
She always carries a thermos of soup for lunch during the winter months.
A sealed vessel that is designed to maintain the temperature of its contents, whether hot or cold.
After a long hike, we enjoyed ice-cold lemonade from the thermos.
A brand name that has become synonymous with vacuum flasks and similar products.
He bought a new thermos for his camping trip to keep his drinks cold.

Etymology

From the Greek word 'thermos,' meaning 'hot.'

Common Phrases and Expressions

a thermos of
a term used to describe something contained within a thermos, often referring to liquids.
thermos bottle
another term for a thermos, emphasizing its bottle structure.

Related Words

insulation
the action of insulating something to prevent heat loss or gain.
vacuum
a space devoid of matter, which is utilized in the design of thermoses.

Slang Meanings

A term used in casual contexts to refer to someone who is overly prepared.
He's such a thermos, always bringing extra snacks and drinks everywhere.
Used to describe a person who is cool under pressure, comparing them to a thermos that keeps things stable.
In a crisis, she's a total thermos—nothing seems to faze her.