rhizoverbBeta
DictionaryvialSmall liquid container
noun

vial

VYE-ul/ˈvaɪəl/

A small glass or plastic container for liquids, especially medicine.

A little clear liquid rests inside the stoppered glass vial.

A small glass vial with a rubber stopper and a little clear liquid in a simple laboratory tray, no label.
Etymology
vialGreekflat bowl or dish

Greek phialē named a flat dish or drinking bowl. The vessel name came to denote a small bottle for liquids, especially medicine; its deeper origin is unknown.

In context

Libranima148:27
All that might be well dispensed with, said Don Quixote, if I had remembered to make a vial of the balsam of Fierabras, for time and medicine are saved by one single drop.
Don Quixote - Cervantes (Illustrated Audiobook) Part 1 of 4

More examples

  • Each vial contains a single dose of the vaccine.
  • She carries a tiny vial of perfume in her purse.
  • The technician labels the vials before storing the samples.

Forms

vial · vials

Similar words

bottle
A broader term for containers, often larger than vials.
ampule
A sealed container usually opened by breaking off its neck.