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Translate files Vial
/ˈvaɪ.əl/
Meaning & Definition
noun
A small container, typically cylindrical and made of glass, used for holding liquid substances, often in a laboratory or for storing pharmaceuticals.
The chemist carefully collected the sample in a sterile vial.
A small bottle, especially one used for holding medicines or other liquids.
She carried a vial of perfume in her purse.
A narrow, typically airtight container used for substances that require protection from air or moisture.
The researchers stored the delicate reagent in a sealed vial to prevent contamination.
Etymology
Middle English, from Old French 'viale', from Latin 'viala', a diminutive of 'via' meaning 'way'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
vial of tears
a metaphorical reference to a person’s sadness, as if their tears could be collected in a vial.
sealed vial
a vial that is closed securely, often used to ensure contamination does not occur.
vial of poison
a vial containing a harmful substance, often used in literature or contexts involving danger.
Related Words
ampoule
A small sealed vial which is used to contain a sample, usually a solid or liquid.
phial
An alternative spelling for vial, typically used in British English.
bottle
A rigid container with a neck that can be sealed, used to hold liquids.
Slang Meanings
A small amount of a substance, often used in reference to drugs.
He's only got a vial of the good stuff left.
Container for illicit drugs.
She carried a vial of liquid courage to the party.