Cane Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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cane
[keɪn ]
Definitions
walking aid
A cane is a stick that people can lean on to help them walk, especially when they have difficulty walking due to injury or old age. Canes come in different materials such as wood, metal, or plastic.
Synonyms
crutch, walking stick.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| cane |
A cane is often used to assist with walking, especially by elderly people or those who have minor mobility issues. It is typically held with one hand.
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| walking stick |
A walking stick is often used for extra support and balance while hiking or in the outdoors. It can also be used by elderly people similarly to a cane. Walking sticks can be more rugged and styled for outdoor use.
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| crutch |
A crutch is usually used by individuals who have a leg injury or disability, offering support with more weight-bearing capacity than a cane. Crutches often come in pairs and are placed under the arms.
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Examples of usage
- He uses a cane to help him walk after his knee surgery.
- The elderly woman relies on her cane to maintain her balance.
animal
A cane can also refer to a long, hollow, jointed rod that is used to support plants such as sugar canes.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| cane |
A cane is usually used as a walking aid by people who need assistance with balance or stability while walking.
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Examples of usage
- The farmer harvested the sugar cane from the field.
- The bamboo cane provided support for the tomato plants.
beating
To cane someone means to beat them with a cane or stick as a form of punishment.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| cane |
Typically used in British English, to describe a punishment where a stick or rod is used to hit someone, usually on the hand or bottom. Often associated with school discipline from past times.
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| whip |
Refers to a long, flexible strip of leather or cord used to hit someone or something, often made to create a cracking sound. Can have a very negative connotation, especially related to severe punishment or slavery.
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| spank |
Often used to describe hitting someone, usually a child, on their bottom with an open hand as a form of punishment. Can carry a negative connotation as it refers to physical punishment.
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Examples of usage
- The teacher threatened to cane the student if he misbehaved again.
- In some cultures, caning is used as a punishment for certain offenses.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
History
- In ancient Egypt, canes were often used by pharaohs and elders as symbols of authority and wisdom.
- Walking sticks have been found in burial sites of prehistoric humans, suggesting their importance in assists and traditions.
Culture
- Canes are often associated with age and disability in many cultures, representing the transition from youth to old age.
- In some martial arts, the cane is used as a weapon and a means to teach balance and mobility.
Fashion
- Canes are sometimes decorative, showcasing elaborate designs or precious materials that can reflect personal style.
- Fashion icons, such as Charlie Chaplin, popularized the use of canes as a statement accessory.
Health
- Using a cane can help distribute weight more evenly, reducing stress on legs, improving posture, and aiding mobility.
- There are various types of canes, such as folding canes or those with built-in lights, to accommodate different user needs.
Origin of 'cane'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'cane' comes from the Latin 'canna', meaning 'reed' or 'tube', which relates to its long and slender shape.
- Originally, canes were made from natural materials like bamboo or rattan, emphasizing their lightweight and flexibility.
The word 'cane' has a Latin origin, coming from the word 'canna' which means reed or cane. Over time, the word evolved to represent both the walking aid and the plant support. The verb form of 'cane' originated from the practice of using canes or sticks for punishment, dating back to ancient times.
See also: can, canal, canine, caning, canister, canning, cannot, canopy, canteen, could.