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.
Many people didn’t sterilize the vials or the skin before injection. — C. Michael White, The Conversation, 7 Aug. 2026 But every vial of insulin or GLP-1 medication on a pharmacist’s shelf is the product of decades of clinical trials and safety testing. — Los Angeles Times, 6 Aug. 2026 West designs and manufactures elastomer stoppers and seals that keep vials sterile, prefillable syringe systems and self-injection cartridges, and wearable patch injectors for continuous drug delivery. — Harvey Stober, CNBC, 5 Aug. 2026 Found in the burn barrel were remnants of Gross' glasses, clothing, magazines, and a vial of her dog's insulin. — Patrick Damp, CBS News, 31 July 2026 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

See All Rhymes for vial

Browse Nearby Words

viajaca
vial
Via Lactea
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Vial.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/vial. Accessed 11 Aug. 2026.

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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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