C1noun 3K

Vessel

UK //ˈvɛsəl// US //ˈvɛsəl// Pronunciation

Definition

A container or craft for holding liquids or goods.

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In simple words: A container or craft used to hold or carry something.

Examples

• The ancient Greeks used a vessel to transport olive oil.
• She served the soup in a beautiful ceramic vessel.
• The research focused on how blood flows through the vessel.
• The project was a vessel for cultural expression.
• A fishing vessel navigated through the foggy waters with precision.

Usage notes

Used for both literal containers and various figurative contexts, such as emotionally or spiritually. Common in formal and technical language.

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Grammar pattern

vessel + noun

Memory hint

Think of a 'vessel' as something that 'holds' like a ship or a cup.

Collocations

• research vessel
• blood vessel
• space vessel
• vessel of communication
• vessel for liquids

Synonyms

• container
• ship
• craft
• conduit
• receptacle

Antonyms

• recipient
• consumer

Common mistakes

• Confused with 'vehicle' which refers specifically to transport.
• Used incorrectly in plural form; 'vessels' is needed when referring to multiple kinds.
• Mixing up with 'container' which is broader; not all containers are vessels.