Top 64 Slang For Contain – Meaning & Usage

When it comes to talking about containment, there’s a whole new language to learn. From the everyday to the unexpected, we’ve gathered the top slang words and phrases for contain that you need to know. Whether you’re trying to keep something under wraps or holding back your emotions, this listicle will have you speaking the language of containment in no time. Get ready to expand your vocabulary and stay in the know with our comprehensive guide.

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1. Hold it down

To keep a situation or group under control or in order. This phrase is often used to convey the need for someone to stay calm and handle a situation effectively.

For example, during a chaotic event, someone might say, “We need someone to hold it down and keep things organized.”
In a team setting, a leader might tell their members, “Everyone needs to hold it down and focus on their tasks.”
A person might encourage themselves, saying, “I can hold it down and handle whatever comes my way.”

2. Keep in check

To closely monitor and control a situation or person to ensure it does not get out of hand or become a problem.

For instance, a supervisor might tell their team, “We need to keep our expenses in check and stay within budget.”
In a personal context, someone might say, “I have to keep my emotions in check and not let them overwhelm me.”
A person might advise their friend, “You need to keep your spending in check and stick to your budget.”

3. Keep a lid on

To maintain secrecy or control over a situation or information. This phrase suggests the need to prevent something from being revealed or from escalating.

For example, a company might say, “We need to keep a lid on this project until we’re ready to announce it.”
In a social context, someone might say, “Let’s keep a lid on the details of the surprise party until the day comes.”
A person might warn their friend, “Keep a lid on your anger and don’t let it escalate into a fight.”

4. Keep under wraps

To keep something hidden or secret, often to avoid premature disclosure or to maintain a surprise element.

For instance, a movie production might say, “We’re keeping the plot under wraps to build anticipation.”
In a personal context, someone might say, “I’m keeping my new job offer under wraps until I’ve made a decision.”
A person might ask their friend, “Can you keep this information under wraps for now? I’ll reveal it at the right time.”

5. Keep a tight leash

To exert strict control or supervision over someone or something, often to prevent them from misbehaving or causing trouble.

For example, a parent might say, “I need to keep a tight leash on my teenager to ensure they follow the rules.”
In a professional context, a manager might say, “I have to keep a tight leash on my team to meet the project deadline.”
A person might comment, “The government needs to keep a tight leash on corruption to maintain trust in the system.”

6. Keep in line

This phrase means to ensure that someone behaves or follows the rules. It is often used in a disciplinary or authoritative context.

For example, a teacher might say to a student, “You need to keep in line and stop talking during class.”
In a workplace setting, a supervisor might tell an employee, “You need to keep in line with company policies and procedures.”
A parent might say to their child, “If you can’t keep in line, there will be consequences.”

7. Keep in the loop

This phrase means to keep someone updated or informed about a particular situation or event. It is often used in professional or social contexts.

For instance, a manager might say to their team, “Please keep me in the loop regarding any changes to the project.”
In a friendship, one person might ask another, “Can you keep me in the loop about your upcoming plans?”
A colleague might say to another, “I’ll keep you in the loop about any updates from the meeting.”

8. Keep it together

This phrase means to maintain composure and not let one’s emotions or stress affect their behavior. It is often used as a form of encouragement or advice.

For example, a friend might say to someone who is feeling overwhelmed, “Take a deep breath and keep it together.”
In a high-pressure situation, someone might say to themselves, “I need to keep it together and focus on the task at hand.”
A coach might say to their team, “Stay focused and keep it together, we can still win this game.”

9. Keep a lid on it

This phrase means to keep something private or prevent it from becoming known or escalating. It is often used in situations where discretion or containment is necessary.

For instance, a friend might say to another, “If you know something sensitive, you need to keep a lid on it.”
In a workplace setting, a supervisor might tell their employees, “We need to keep a lid on this situation until we have more information.”
Someone might say to themselves, “I need to keep a lid on my emotions and not let them affect my decision-making.”

10. Keep a handle on

This phrase means to ensure that one has control or oversight over a situation or task. It is often used in professional or managerial contexts.

For example, a project manager might say, “I need to keep a handle on the budget to ensure we stay on track.”
In a leadership role, someone might say, “It’s important to keep a handle on the team’s progress and address any issues.”
A parent might say to their child, “I need to keep a handle on your schoolwork and make sure you’re staying on top of your assignments.”

11. Keep it on the down low

This phrase means to keep something confidential or hidden from others. It implies that the information should not be shared or spread around.

For example, “We need to keep this party on the down low until everything is ready.”
A friend might say, “I trust you to keep it on the down low, but don’t tell anyone else.”
Someone might warn, “If you want to stay out of trouble, keep your activities on the down low.”

12. Keep it on the DL

Similar to “keep it on the down low,” this phrase means to keep something secret or confidential. It is often used in casual conversations or text messages.

For instance, “Hey, can you keep it on the DL that I’m leaving early today?”
A coworker might ask, “Can you help me with something? Just keep it on the DL for now.”
A friend might say, “I heard some gossip, but let’s keep it on the DL until we have more information.”

13. Keep it on the hush-hush

This phrase means to keep something secret or not to disclose it to others. It implies that the information should be kept confidential and not shared openly.

For example, “We need to keep this project on the hush-hush until we’re ready to announce it.”
A person might say, “I trust you to keep it on the hush-hush, but don’t let anyone else know.”
Someone might advise, “If you want to avoid unnecessary drama, keep your personal matters on the hush-hush.”

14. Keep it on the low-low

This phrase means to keep something low-profile or to avoid drawing attention to it. It suggests keeping a low level of visibility or public knowledge about something.

For instance, “Let’s keep our relationship on the low-low for now.”
A friend might say, “I don’t want everyone to know, so let’s keep it on the low-low.”
Someone might caution, “If you want to avoid rumors, keep your actions on the low-low.”

15. Keep it on the QT

Similar to “keep it on the down low” and “keep it on the hush-hush,” this phrase means to keep something secret or confidential. It emphasizes the need for discretion and not sharing the information openly.

For example, “We need to keep this plan on the QT until we’re ready to execute it.”
A colleague might say, “I trust you to keep it on the QT, but don’t mention it to anyone else.”
Someone might advise, “If you want to maintain trust, keep your intentions on the QT.”

16. Keep it on the down-low

This phrase means to keep something confidential or not to share it with others. It implies that the information should be kept quiet and not spread around.

For example, “I heard some gossip about our boss, but let’s keep it on the down-low.”
In a discussion about a surprise party, someone might say, “We need to keep it on the down-low so the birthday girl doesn’t find out.”
A friend might ask, “Can you keep it on the down-low that I’m dating someone from work?”

17. Keep it on lock

This phrase means to keep something safe or protected. It implies that the object or information should be guarded and not accessible to others.

For instance, “Make sure you keep your valuables on lock when you’re traveling.”
In a conversation about personal data, someone might say, “You should always keep your social security number on lock.”
A person discussing home security might advise, “Keep your doors and windows on lock to prevent break-ins.”

18. Keep it contained

This phrase means to keep something restrained or limited. It implies that the situation or object should be managed and not allowed to spread or escalate.

For example, “There was a small fire, but the firefighters were able to keep it contained.”
In a discussion about a disagreement, someone might say, “Let’s keep it contained and not let it affect our friendship.”
A teacher might instruct students, “If you need to sneeze, please cover your mouth to keep it contained.”

19. Keep it in check

This phrase means to keep something monitored or regulated. It implies that the situation or behavior should be kept in moderation and not allowed to become excessive.

For instance, “I have a tendency to overeat, so I need to keep it in check.”
In a conversation about spending money, someone might say, “I need to keep my shopping habits in check and stick to a budget.”
A coach might advise an athlete, “Make sure you keep your emotions in check during the game.”

20. Keep it under wraps

This phrase means to keep something hidden or concealed. It implies that the information or plan should be kept confidential and not revealed to others.

For example, “We have a surprise party planned for Sarah, so let’s keep it under wraps.”
In a discussion about a new product launch, someone might say, “We need to keep the details under wraps until the official announcement.”
A friend might ask, “Can you keep it under wraps that I’m quitting my job?”

21. Keep it on the lowdown

This phrase means to keep something confidential or not share it with others. It implies that the information should be kept hidden or not widely known.

For example, “Hey, I found out some juicy gossip about our boss, but let’s keep it on the lowdown.”
In a discussion about a surprise party, someone might say, “We need to keep it on the lowdown so the birthday girl doesn’t find out.”
A friend might ask, “Can you keep it on the lowdown that I’m dating your ex?”

22. Keep a tight leash on it

This phrase means to closely monitor or control something or someone, often to prevent them from causing trouble or going astray.

For instance, a parent might say to their child, “I’m going to keep a tight leash on your internet usage.”
In a workplace setting, a manager might tell an employee, “I need you to keep a tight leash on your spending.”
A coach might instruct their team, “We need to keep a tight leash on our opponents’ offense.”

23. Keep it under control

This phrase means to manage or handle something in a way that prevents it from becoming chaotic or getting out of hand.

For example, during a heated argument, someone might say, “Calm down and keep it under control.”
In a discussion about managing stress, someone might advise, “Find healthy coping mechanisms to keep it under control.”
A teacher might tell their students, “I expect you to keep your behavior under control during the field trip.”

24. Keep it in line

This phrase means to make sure that someone or something follows the expected rules or guidelines.

For instance, a supervisor might say to their team, “We need to keep our expenses in line with the budget.”
In a discussion about discipline, a parent might say, “I have to keep my kids in line or they’ll walk all over me.”
A teacher might remind their students, “Please keep your behavior in line during the assembly.”

25. Keep it in bounds

This phrase means to stay within the acceptable or designated boundaries or limits.

For example, during a friendly game of basketball, someone might say, “Hey, watch your foot! Keep it in bounds.”
In a discussion about personal boundaries, someone might advise, “It’s important to know your limits and keep it in bounds.”
A coach might tell their team, “We need to keep our aggression in bounds and play fair.”

26. Keep it in the bag

This phrase is often used to indicate that someone has control or possession of something and will not let it escape or be lost.

For example, if someone is in charge of a project, they might say, “I’ll keep it in the bag and make sure everything goes smoothly.”
In a game or competition, a player might say, “I’ve got this in the bag” to express confidence in winning.
If someone is entrusted with a secret, they might say, “Don’t worry, I’ll keep it in the bag and not tell anyone.”

27. Hold

This term is used to describe the action of having or keeping something in one’s possession or control.

For instance, if someone is holding a package, they might say, “I’ll hold onto this for you until you’re ready to take it.”
In a negotiation, someone might say, “I’m not going to let go of this opportunity, I’ll hold onto it until we reach an agreement.”
If someone is in possession of valuable information, they might say, “I have the evidence, I’m holding onto it until the right moment.”

28. Store

This term is often used to describe the action of keeping or holding something for future use or safekeeping.

For example, if someone is storing their winter clothes during the summer, they might say, “I’ll store these jackets in the attic until next season.”
In a discussion about data management, someone might say, “We need a reliable system to store and organize our files.”
If someone is saving money for a specific purpose, they might say, “I’m storing up funds for a vacation next year.”

29. House

This term is used to describe the action of containing or holding something within a specific space or location.

For instance, if someone is keeping their tools in a shed, they might say, “I house my tools in the backyard.”
In a conversation about storing belongings, someone might say, “I’m going to house these books on the top shelf.”
If someone is providing shelter or accommodation for others, they might say, “I house several students in my spare rooms.”

30. Encase

This term is often used to describe the action of surrounding or containing something within a protective covering or case.

For example, if someone is protecting fragile items with bubble wrap, they might say, “I’ll encase these items to prevent any damage.”
In a discussion about preserving artifacts, someone might say, “We need to encase these ancient relics to protect them from deterioration.”
If someone is packaging a gift, they might say, “I’ll encase this present in wrapping paper for a festive touch.”

31. Trap

To hold or confine something or someone in a particular space or situation.

For example, “The police trapped the suspect in an alley.”
A person might say, “I feel trapped in my job, I need a change.”
In a game of chess, a player might say, “I trapped my opponent’s queen and won the game.”

32. Envelop

To completely surround or cover something.

For instance, “The fog enveloped the city, making it difficult to see.”
A person might say, “I was enveloped in a feeling of joy when I saw my loved ones.”
A writer might describe a scene as, “The darkness enveloped the forest, creating an eerie atmosphere.”

33. Embrace

To accept or welcome something or someone willingly or enthusiastically.

For example, “I embrace new challenges as opportunities for growth.”
A person might say, “I embrace diversity and believe in equality for all.”
A motivational speaker might encourage others to embrace change and take risks.

34. Harbour

To provide a safe place or refuge for something or someone.

For instance, “The cave harboured the lost hikers during the storm.”
A person might say, “I harbour no ill feelings towards my ex, I’ve moved on.”
A writer might describe a character as, “He harboured a secret that would change everything.”

35. Comprise

To be made up of or include different parts or components.

For example, “The team comprises players from various countries.”
A person might say, “The book comprises three separate stories.”
A teacher might explain, “The exam will comprise multiple-choice and essay questions.”

36. Lodge

To hold or contain something within a specific place or structure. “Lodge” can also refer to staying in a particular location, such as a hotel or cabin.

For example, “Please lodge your complaints with the customer service department.”
In a discussion about wildlife, someone might say, “Bears often lodge in caves during the winter.”
A traveler might ask, “Can you recommend a lodge near the national park?”

37. Retain

To keep or hold onto something, often for an extended period. “Retain” can also refer to remembering or recalling information.

For instance, a business might try to retain customers by offering loyalty programs.
In a conversation about memory, someone might say, “It’s important to retain information for exams.”
A lawyer might advise a client, “Make sure to retain all relevant documents for the case.”

38. Constrain

To limit or restrict something or someone. “Constrain” often implies imposing boundaries or preventing freedom.

For example, “The tight deadline constrained their ability to fully develop the project.”
In a discussion about government regulations, someone might argue, “Excessive regulations can constrain economic growth.”
A teacher might say, “Let’s not constrain our creativity. Think outside the box!”

39. Constitute

To be the parts or elements that make up a whole. “Constitute” can also refer to establishing or creating something.

For instance, “The members of the committee constitute a diverse group.”
In a conversation about government, someone might say, “These laws constitute the foundation of our legal system.”
A historian might explain, “The events of that year constituted a turning point in history.”

40. Incorporate

To include or combine something into a larger whole. “Incorporate” often implies integrating or merging different elements.

For example, “The new design incorporates feedback from user testing.”
In a discussion about healthy eating, someone might suggest, “Try to incorporate more fruits and vegetables into your diet.”
A business consultant might advise, “In order to stay competitive, you need to incorporate new technologies into your operations.”

41. Containate

While “containate” is not a commonly used slang term, it can be used to describe the act of holding or including something within a specific area or boundary.

For example, “The storage unit is designed to containate all of your belongings.”
In a discussion about pollution, one might say, “We need to find a way to containate the toxic waste.”
A person describing a task might say, “My job is to containate all the necessary information for the project.”

42. Confine

“Confine” is a slang term used to describe the act of restricting or limiting something within certain boundaries.

For instance, “The prisoners were confined to their cells.”
In a conversation about a dog’s behavior, one might say, “We had to confine him to the backyard.”
A person discussing a project might say, “We need to confine our focus to the most important tasks.”

43. Encompass

“Encompass” is a slang term used to describe the act of including or containing something completely.

For example, “The report encompasses all the necessary data.”
In a discussion about a book, one might say, “The story encompasses a wide range of emotions.”
A person describing a project might say, “Our goal is to encompass all aspects of the problem.”

44. Enshrine

“Enshrine” is a slang term used to describe the act of preserving or protecting something within a sacred or revered space.

For instance, “The museum enshrines the artwork of famous artists.”
In a conversation about a historical figure, one might say, “Her legacy is enshrined in the hearts of the people.”
A person discussing a cherished memory might say, “I want to enshrine that moment in my mind forever.”

45. Occupy

“Occupy” is a slang term used to describe the act of filling or taking up a space or time.

For example, “The protesters are occupying the city square.”
In a discussion about a busy schedule, one might say, “Work occupies most of my time.”
A person describing a crowded room might say, “The party was so popular, it occupied every inch of the venue.”

46. Compress

To reduce the size or volume of something by applying pressure or squeezing it together. “Compress” is often used to describe the act of making something smaller or more compact.

For example, when talking about file sizes, someone might say, “You can compress the images to reduce the file size.”
In a discussion about packing for a trip, someone might suggest, “You can compress your clothes by using vacuum-sealed bags.”
A person giving advice on saving space might say, “Try compressing your files to free up storage on your computer.”

47. Imprison

To confine someone in a prison or jail, depriving them of their freedom. “Imprison” is a more formal term for the act of incarcerating someone.

For instance, when discussing a criminal case, someone might say, “The judge decided to imprison the defendant for 10 years.”
In a conversation about human rights, someone might argue, “No one should be imprisoned without a fair trial.”
A person discussing the justice system might say, “We need to find alternatives to imprisoning non-violent offenders.”

48. Sequester

To separate or set apart someone or something from others, often for a specific purpose. “Sequester” can refer to isolating someone or something physically or metaphorically.

For example, when discussing a jury trial, someone might say, “The jury was sequestered during the deliberation process.”
In a conversation about preserving evidence, someone might suggest, “We should sequester the key witnesses until the trial.”
A person discussing the effects of quarantine might say, “Being sequestered at home can have a significant impact on one’s mental health.”

49. Conserve

To protect, preserve, or use something carefully to prevent waste or depletion. “Conserve” often refers to the act of using resources efficiently or reducing consumption.

For instance, when discussing environmental sustainability, someone might say, “We need to conserve water by taking shorter showers.”
In a conversation about energy conservation, someone might suggest, “Turn off the lights when you leave a room to conserve electricity.”
A person discussing financial responsibility might say, “It’s important to conserve your savings for unexpected expenses.”

50. Enclose

To surround or close off an area or object by putting something around it or covering it completely. “Enclose” is often used to describe the act of creating a physical barrier or boundary.

For example, when giving directions, someone might say, “The park is enclosed by a fence.”
In a conversation about mailing a letter, someone might suggest, “Enclose the document in an envelope before sending it.”
A person discussing privacy might say, “You can enclose your backyard with tall hedges to create a secluded space.”

51. Keep

This word is used to indicate that something is being held or retained in a certain place or position. It implies the act of not letting something go or allowing it to escape.

For example, “Keep your thoughts to yourself.”
In a conversation about secrets, someone might say, “Can you keep a secret?”
A parent might tell their child, “Keep your room clean.”

52. Include

To involve or contain as part of a whole. It suggests that something or someone is being added or considered as part of a particular group or category.

For instance, “The package includes all the necessary items.”
In a discussion about a team project, someone might say, “Make sure to include all team members in the decision-making process.”
A menu might state, “The meal includes an appetizer, main course, and dessert.”

53. Contain

To have or hold something within or inside. It signifies that an object or substance is being confined or restricted within certain boundaries.

For example, “The box contains various items.”
In a conversation about a leak, someone might say, “We need to contain the water before it spreads.”
A warning label might state, “Contains peanuts. May cause allergic reactions.”

54. Harbor

To provide refuge or protection for something or someone. It implies that a person or place is giving shelter to another person or a secret.

For instance, “The city harbors many homeless individuals.”
In a discussion about criminals, someone might say, “The gang is known to harbor fugitives.”
A person might confess, “I harbor feelings for my best friend.”

55. Hold back

To prevent or keep someone or something from progressing or advancing. It suggests that an action or emotion is being controlled or suppressed.

For example, “He held back his tears.”
In a conversation about a race, someone might say, “Don’t hold back, give it your all.”
A teacher might instruct their students, “Don’t hold back your questions, ask anything you’re curious about.”

56. Bottle up

To bottle up means to suppress or repress emotions or feelings, often in an unhealthy or detrimental way.

For example, “She tends to bottle up her anger instead of expressing it.”
In a therapy session, a psychologist might say, “It’s important to learn healthy ways to deal with emotions instead of bottling them up.”
A friend might advise, “Don’t bottle up your feelings. It’s okay to talk about what’s bothering you.”

57. Lock up

To lock up means to secure or confine something, often to prevent access or protect against theft.

For instance, “Make sure to lock up your valuables before leaving the house.”
A business owner might say, “Please lock up the store when you leave for the night.”
In a discussion about security measures, someone might suggest, “Lock up your bike with a sturdy lock to prevent theft.”

58. Restrain

To restrain means to hold back or prevent someone or something from taking action or moving freely.

For example, “The police officer used handcuffs to restrain the suspect.”
In a heated argument, someone might say, “I had to restrain myself from saying something hurtful.”
A parent might tell their child, “Please restrain your excitement and wait patiently.”

59. Curb

To curb means to control or limit something, often to prevent excess or maintain order.

For instance, “The government implemented measures to curb inflation.”
A teacher might say, “Please curb your enthusiasm and wait for your turn.”
In a discussion about dieting, someone might suggest, “Try to curb your sugar intake for better health.”

60. Check

To check means to stop or control the progress of something, often to evaluate or prevent further action.

For example, “The doctor checked the patient’s vital signs.”
In a game of chess, someone might say, “Checkmate! I’ve checked your king.”
A supervisor might ask, “Please check your work before submitting it for review.”

61. Box in

This slang term refers to the act of trapping or cornering someone or something, usually in a physical sense. It can also be used figuratively to describe a situation where someone feels trapped or restricted.

For example, “The police boxed in the suspect, preventing their escape.”
In a game of chess, a player might say, “I boxed in my opponent’s king, leaving them with no moves.”
In a conversation about relationships, someone might say, “I feel boxed in by the expectations of society.”

62. Wrap

In slang terms, “wrap” means to cover or enclose something. It can be used to describe the act of containing or packaging something.

For instance, “Can you wrap up the leftovers and put them in the fridge?”
In a discussion about gift wrapping, someone might say, “I need to wrap this present before the party.”
In a conversation about food, a person might ask, “Can you wrap the sandwich in foil to keep it fresh?”

63. Bottle

When used as slang, “bottle” means to hold or store something, particularly in a container. It can be used to describe the act of containing or preserving.

For example, “I need to bottle up this sauce and put it in the fridge.”
In a discussion about home canning, someone might say, “We’re going to bottle our own pickles this year.”
In a conversation about emotions, a person might say, “I try to bottle up my anger and not let it affect me.”

64. Pack

In slang terms, “pack” means to load or fill something. It can be used to describe the act of containing or stuffing something into a container.

For instance, “Can you pack the suitcase with all my clothes?”
In a discussion about moving, someone might say, “I need to pack up my belongings and transport them to the new house.”
In a conversation about shipping, a person might ask, “How do I pack this fragile item to ensure it doesn’t break?”