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.
My multiple vials were carted off to be tested for more than 100 biomarkers, from hormonal and metabolic to thyroid and immune regulation. — Fiorella Valdesolo, Allure, 12 Mar. 2025 The company is now offering 7.5 mg and 10 mg vials, higher doses than it's offered since launching Zepbound vials in August. — Cathy Cassata, Health, 7 Mar. 2025 During the first season, an innocent character finds a questionable vial, which in other examples of the genre may typically foreshadow a long and arduous addiction storyline. — Robyn Bahr, The Hollywood Reporter, 7 Mar. 2025 Similar vials will be offered as keepsakes after some of the brand’s events. — Justin Fenner, Robb Report, 19 Jan. 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

Rhymes for vial

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Browse Nearby Words

vial
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Cite this Entry

“Vial.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/vial. Accessed 22 Mar. 2025.

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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

Nglish: Translation of vial for Spanish Speakers

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