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² can

Pronounced:

/ˈkæn/

Function:

noun

Inflected forms:

plural cans

Meaning:

[count] 1 a : a closed metal container that is usually shaped like a cylinder and that holds food or drink ▪ Open a can [=(Brit) tin] of beans. ▪ a can of tomatoes ▪ a soda/beer can b : the food or drink that is in a can ▪ He ate the whole can of beans.
2 a : a metal or plastic container that has a removable top and that is used for holding liquid, trash, etc. ▪ a can of oil = an oil can ▪ a garbage can ▪ a trash can b : spray can ▪ a can of deodorant

can of worms

: a complicated situation in which doing something to correct a problem leads to many more problems ▪ We thought the project would be simple, but it turned out to be a real can of worms. ▪ Our boss is reluctant to change the policy now because she doesn't want to open a can of worms.

carry the can

Brit informal : to accept blame or responsibility for something that you did not cause ▪ He made the error, but she was left to carry the can. ▪ Taxpayers will carry the can for the renovations.

in the can

of a film, recording, etc. : completed and ready to be released ▪ a movie that is in the can

the can

US informal 1 : the part of the body that you sit on : buttocks ▪ If you ask me, what he needs is a good kick in the can.
2 a : a room with a toilet : bathroom ▪ He locked himself in the can and wouldn't come out. b : toilet ▪ sitting on the can
3 : a prison or jail ▪ The cops threw him in the can.

—can·ful

/ˈkænˌfʊl/ noun plural can·fuls ▪ a canful of beans

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