Bin Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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bin
[bɪn ]
Definitions
storage
A container for holding items, typically made of metal or plastic, with a lid for opening and closing.
Synonyms
container, receptacle, trash can.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| bin |
Used in computing to refer to a location where deleted files are temporarily stored.
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| container |
A general term used for any type of vessel or box used to hold or store items, not limited to trash.
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| receptacle |
A formal term often used in technical or official documents to describe a container or repository for various items.
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| trash can |
Commonly used in American English to refer to a container for discarding waste. It can be used informally in everyday language.
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Examples of usage
- She put the old toys in the bin to make room for the new ones.
- The bin was overflowing with trash and needed to be emptied.
computing
A unit of digital information, consisting of a series of bits.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| bin |
In computing, 'bin' can refer to a binary file or directory. It can also be used in everyday language to refer to a container for trash.
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| unit |
A 'unit' can be a general term for a single entity or component, often used in measurement and educational contexts. In computing, it might refer to a logical unit of work or a specific section within a program.
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| bit |
A 'bit' is the most basic unit of data in computing and digital communications, representing a binary state of 0 or 1. It is often used when discussing data transfer rates or digital storage.
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| byte |
A 'byte' is a unit of digital information that consists of 8 bits. It is commonly used in contexts involving data storage and memory.
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Examples of usage
- The file size is 4 GB, which is equivalent to 32 billion bins.
- Each bin represents a specific value in the data set.
disposing
To throw away or discard something.
Synonyms
discard, dispose of, throw away.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| bin |
As a noun, 'bin' refers to a container for storing trash or other items.
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| discard |
Used in formal or technical contexts to suggest getting rid of something that is no longer needed or wanted.
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| dispose of |
Often used in formal or legal contexts, especially when talking about the proper or specified way to get rid of waste or hazardous materials.
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| throw away |
Common in everyday informal speech in both American and British English. It implies getting rid of something by placing it in the trash.
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Examples of usage
- He decided to bin all the old magazines to declutter his room.
- Please don't bin the leftovers, I'll eat them later.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Everyday Use
- There are specialized bins for recycling, compost, and trash to help people manage waste responsibly.
- In kitchens, bins help keep ingredients fresh, while in offices, they hold important documents organized.
- Interactive bins in parks collect litter and frequently remind visitors to keep the environment clean.
Cultural Impact
- In many cultures, waste management is crucial, leading to the creation of artistic recycling bins to promote awareness.
- Some urban areas have adopted colorful bins to enhance aesthetics while encouraging proper disposal habits.
- In comic relief, bins often appear in humorous scenes where their contents unexpectedly spill out, adding comedy to stories.
Science and Technology
- Smart bins equipped with sensors can monitor waste levels and alert waste management services when they are full.
- Research suggests that using transparent bins can encourage people to recycle more by making visible the amount collected.
- Biodegradable bins are being developed to help reduce plastic waste and promote more sustainable practices.
Origin of 'bin'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'bin' comes from the Old English 'binn', meaning a receptacle or container.
- In Old French, 'bin' referred to a storage place, showing its long history in different languages.
- The transition of 'bin' into common English usage reflects the cultural importance of organization.
The word 'bin' originated from Middle English 'binne', which meant a receptacle for holding grain. Over time, the meaning expanded to include any container for storing items. In computing, the term 'bin' is short for 'binary', reflecting its use in representing digital information. The verb form of 'bin' emerged in the 20th century, indicating the act of throwing away or discarding something. Today, 'bin' is commonly used in everyday language to refer to various types of containers and digital units.
See also: binary.