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DictionaryphialSmall liquid container
noun

phial

FYE-ul/ˈfaɪəl/

A small glass container for liquid medicine or chemicals.

The stoppered glass phial contains a small amount of blue liquid.

A small slender clear glass phial containing a little blue liquid with a stopper, no markings.
Etymology
phialGreekflat vessel or bowl

Greek phialē named a flat dish or bowl used for drinking or sacrifice. The container name shifted to a small bottle for liquids; the Greek word’s own origin is unknown.

More examples

  • She draws a few drops from the phial with a pipette.
  • Each phial contains a different chemical solution.
  • The technician labels the phials before storing them.

Forms

phial · phials

Similar words

vial
The usual American term for the same small container.
bottle
A broader term covering containers of many sizes and contents.