1a. A cylindrical vessel used for holding or carrying liquids or solids; a pail. b. The amount that a bucket can hold: One bucket of paint will be enough for the ceiling.2. A unit of dry measure in the U.S. Customary System equal to 2 pecks (17.6 liters). See table at measurement. 3. A receptacle on various machines, such as the scoop of a power shovel or the compartments on a water wheel, used to gather and convey material. 4.Basketball A basket.