vial

noun

vi·​al ˈvī(-ə)l How to pronounce vial (audio)
: a small closed or closable vessel especially for liquids

Examples of vial in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Kristen Carotenuto stole vials of hydromorphone and fentanyl from the Stamford outpatient surgical center in December, then brought the vials home, according to the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Connecticut. Julia Marnin, Miami Herald, 8 Apr. 2025 In the final stage, the drug is packaged into boxes, vials or pens. Rebecca Robbins, New York Times, 4 Apr. 2025 Lilly is offering single-dose vials that patients self-administer using a needle and syringe. Claire Bugos, Verywell Health, 11 Mar. 2025 Consumers who buy a month's supply of 2.5-mg vials will pay $349 and 5-mg vials will cost $499. Ken Alltucker, USA TODAY, 2 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for vial

Word History

Etymology

Middle English fiole, viole, from Anglo-French, from Late Latin fiola, alteration of Latin phiala — more at phial

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of vial was in the 14th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Vial.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/vial. Accessed 15 Apr. 2025.

Kids Definition

vial

noun
vi·​al ˈvī(-ə)l How to pronounce vial (audio)
: a small container (as for medicines) made usually of glass or plastic

Medical Definition

vial

noun
vi·​al ˈvī(-ə)l How to pronounce vial (audio)
: a small closed or closable vessel especially for liquids

called also phial

More from Merriam-Webster on vial

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