Contenait (en. Contained)

/kɔ̃t(ə)ˈnɛ/

Meaning & Definition

EnglishFrench
verb
To hold something inside.
The box contained toys.
La boîte contenait des jouets.
To have a certain volume or capacity.
The tank contained enough water for the whole day.
Le réservoir contenait assez d'eau pour toute la journée.
To hold information or ideas.
This book contained fascinating secrets.
Ce livre contenait des secrets fascinants.

Etymology

From the Latin verb 'continere', meaning 'to hold together'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

to contain a secret
To hold information that one does not want to disclose.
contenir un secret
contained in
Included in something.
contenu dans
to hold oneself back
To prevent oneself from showing emotions.
se contenir

Related Words

to contain
Verb meaning to have something inside.
contenir
content
That which is enclosed in something.
contenu
capacity
Volume or capacity of a container.
contenance

Slang Meanings

To keep inside oneself.
He contained his emotions during the discussion.
Il contenait ses émotions lors de la discussion.
To have under control.
She contained the chaos in her life.
Elle contenait le chaos dans sa vie.