flask
UK[flɑːsk]US[flæsk]
n
a narrow-necked bottle made of glass or plastic, used especially in chemistry laboratories.
n
a flat bottle made of metal or glass, often covered with leather or woven material, used for carrying alcohol or other drinks.
n
a narrow-necked bulbous glass container, typically for wine or oil.
Etymology
the word "flask" entered english in the 14th century from medieval latin "flasca" or "flasco," meaning "bottle." this latin term is believed to have germanic origins, likely from a source akin to old high german "flaska," also meaning "bottle" or "flask." the germanic root may be connected to the idea of weaving or plaiting, possibly referring to early containers that were covered or reinforced with woven material. over time, the term specialized in english to denote specific types of bottles, particularly those with a narrow neck used in scientific or portable contexts, solidifying its modern meanings.
Analysis
the word is a simplex loanword. its core form has been borrowed as a whole unit into english.
Examples
the chemist carefully heated the liquid in the round-bottomed flask.
he pulled a silver flask from his coat pocket and took a quick sip.
an ancient roman glass flask was discovered during the archaeological dig.