noun
canister
KAN-ih-ster/ˈkænɪstər/
A usually cylindrical container for holding or storing something.
The open canister reveals tea leaves beneath its fitted lid.
Etymology
The ancestor names a basket made from reeds, and canister originally meant “basket.” Under the influence of the unrelated word can, it came to mean a small metal container.
In context
WHETHER YOU CONSIDER THROWING A TEAR GAS CANISTER BACK AN ACT OF AGGRESSION IS UP TO YOU
More examples
- A spare oxygen canister was secured to the cart.
- Three labeled canisters held flour, sugar, and tea.
- He replaced the empty fuel canister.
Forms
canister · canisters
Similar words
- box
- Usually angular, while canister commonly suggests a cylindrical container.