crate

 
Pronunciation: /kreɪt/

noun

  • 1a slatted wooden case used for transporting goods: a crate of bananas
  • a square rigid container divided into small units, used for transporting or storing bottles: a milk crate
  • 2 informal an old and dilapidated vehicle: you wouldn’t believe the age of some of the crates I’ve driven

verb

[with object]
  • pack (something) in a crate for transportation: fruit and vegetables were being sorted and crated

Derivatives

crateful

noun (plural cratefuls)

Origin:

late Middle English: perhaps related to Dutch krat 'tailboard of a wagon', earlier 'box of a coach', of unknown origin