Can: meaning, definitions and examples

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can

[ kæn ]

^{Context #1}

ability

Used to indicate ability or possibility.

Synonyms

be able to, have the ability to, have the capacity to

Examples of usage

I can speak English fluently.
She can run faster than him.
Can you help me with this problem?
We can finish the project by tomorrow.
Can you believe what he just said?

^{Context #2}

container

A cylindrical metal container.

Synonyms

container, tin, tin can

Examples of usage

He opened a can of soda.
She used a can to store the leftover food.
The soup was stored in a can.

Translations

Translations of the word "can" in other languages:

🇵🇹 pode

🇮🇳 सकता है

🇩🇪 kann

🇮🇩 bisa

🇺🇦 може

🇵🇱 może

🇯🇵 できる (dekiru)

🇫🇷 peut

🇪🇸 puede

🇹🇷 yapabilir

🇰🇷 할 수 있다 (hal su itda)

🇸🇦 يستطيع

🇨🇿 může

🇸🇰 môže

🇨🇳 可以 (kěyǐ)

🇸🇮 lahko

🇮🇸 getur

🇰🇿 мүмкін

🇬🇪 შეუძლია

🇦🇿 bacarır

🇲🇽 puede

Word origin

The word 'can' has a fascinating history, originating from the Old English word 'cunnan' meaning 'to know, know how to, be able'. Over time, it evolved to be used as a modal verb indicating ability or possibility. The noun form of 'can' as a cylindrical metal container has its roots in the late 14th century, from Old French 'canne' meaning 'container, vessel'. Today, 'can' is a versatile word used in various contexts across languages.

See also: canal, cane, canine, caning, canister, canning, cannot, canopy, canteen, could.