noun Uncommon

containment

kuhn-TAYN-muhnt

Containment (noun) means the act or state of keeping something within limits, or the thing that has been kept in check. Example: “Containment of the outbreak was the health department's top priority.”

noun

The act or state of keeping something within limits, or the thing that has been kept in check.

"Containment of the outbreak was the health department's top priority."

(history/politics) A foreign policy strategy aimed at stopping a rival power from expanding its influence, notably US policy toward the Soviet Union during the Cold War.

"Containment shaped much of American foreign policy after World War II."

A protective structure built to stop dangerous or radioactive material from escaping, as in a nuclear plant.

"The reactor's containment building withstood the earthquake."

How to use containment

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishKeeping something dangerous, harmful, or unwanted from spreading further.

Common pairings

containment strategy containment breach virus containment

Word forms

containments plural

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_____ of the outbreak was the health department's top priority.

Etymology

From contain + the noun-forming suffix -ment.

Rhymes for containment

detainment entertainment

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Frequently asked questions

What does “containment” mean?

The word “containment” means the act or state of keeping something within limits, or the thing that has been kept in check. In plain terms, keeping something dangerous, harmful, or unwanted from spreading further.

How do you pronounce “containment”?

“Containment” is pronounced kuhn-TAYN-muhnt (/kənˈteɪnmənt/ in IPA).

How do you use “containment” in a sentence?

Here is “containment” used in a sentence: “Containment of the outbreak was the health department's top priority.”

What part of speech is “containment”?

“Containment” is a noun.

Is “containment” a common word?

“Containment” is an uncommon word in modern English.

How many meanings does “containment” have?

“Containment” has 3 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: the act or state of keeping something within limits, or the thing that has been kept in check.