Cans: meaning, definitions and examples

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cans

 

[kรฆnz ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

containers, storage

Cans are cylindrical containers that are typically made of metal, used for storing a variety of substances, most commonly food and beverages. They are designed to preserve the contents, keeping them safe from spoilage and contamination. Cans can be opened using a can opener or with a pull-tab mechanism. The process of canning is a popular method of food preservation that dates back to the early 19th century.

Synonyms

container, jar, tin.

Examples of usage

  • I bought a few cans of soda from the store.
  • We opened a can of beans for dinner.
  • The chef uses cans of tomatoes for his sauce.
  • Please recycle your empty cans.
Context #2 | Verb

ability, permission

To can means to be able to do something or to have permission to do something. It is used informally and often conveys a sense of capability or allowance. This usage has been prominent in American English, particularly since the 20th century.

Synonyms

allowed to, be able to, capable of.

Examples of usage

  • I can go to the party if I finish my homework.
  • Can you help me with this task?
  • She said we can leave early today.
  • They can come along if they want.

Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

  • The first canning method was developed in the early 19th century to preserve food for soldiers, helping maintain nutrition.
  • Cans were originally made of glass, but metal cans became popular after the introduction of tin-coated iron, allowing for sturdier packaging.

Science

  • Cans are vacuum-sealed to keep out air, which helps prevent the growth of bacteria and spoilage of food.
  • The process of canning involves heating the food within the can to kill harmful microbes, extending its shelf life for years.

Cultural Impact

  • Canned food gained popularity in the U.S. during the Great Depression because it offered a cheap and long-lasting way to feed families.
  • In many music cultures, 'cans' can refer to headphones, reflecting how language evolves to connect everyday objects with new meanings.

Environmental Considerations

  • Aluminum cans are one of the most recyclable items, and recycling them uses 95% less energy than creating new aluminum.
  • The rise in recycling efforts has significantly reduced the amount of waste in landfills, as cans can be reused infinitely.

Pop Culture

  • In the 1980s, the term 'can' took on a new twist in slang, representing someone who is willing to try new things or be adventurous.
  • Several popular songs, like 'Can You Feel the Love Tonight' from The Lion King, play with the idea of possibilities, tying back to the word 'can.'

Translations

Translations of the word "cans" in other languages:

๐Ÿ‡ต๐Ÿ‡น latas

๐Ÿ‡ฎ๐Ÿ‡ณ เคกเคฟเคฌเฅเคฌเฅ‡

๐Ÿ‡ฉ๐Ÿ‡ช Dosen

๐Ÿ‡ฎ๐Ÿ‡ฉ kaleng

๐Ÿ‡บ๐Ÿ‡ฆ ะฑะฐะฝะบะธ

๐Ÿ‡ต๐Ÿ‡ฑ puszki

๐Ÿ‡ฏ๐Ÿ‡ต ็ผถ

๐Ÿ‡ซ๐Ÿ‡ท boรฎtes

๐Ÿ‡ช๐Ÿ‡ธ latas

๐Ÿ‡น๐Ÿ‡ท konserve kutularฤฑ

๐Ÿ‡ฐ๐Ÿ‡ท ์บ”

๐Ÿ‡ธ๐Ÿ‡ฆ ุนู„ุจ

๐Ÿ‡จ๐Ÿ‡ฟ plechovky

๐Ÿ‡ธ๐Ÿ‡ฐ plechovky

๐Ÿ‡จ๐Ÿ‡ณ ็ฝๅคด

๐Ÿ‡ธ๐Ÿ‡ฎ konzerve

๐Ÿ‡ฎ๐Ÿ‡ธ dรณsir

๐Ÿ‡ฐ๐Ÿ‡ฟ ะบะพะฝัะตั€ะฒั–ะปะตั€

๐Ÿ‡ฌ๐Ÿ‡ช แƒ‘แƒแƒœแƒ™แƒ”แƒ‘แƒ˜

๐Ÿ‡ฆ๐Ÿ‡ฟ konservlษ™r

๐Ÿ‡ฒ๐Ÿ‡ฝ latas

Word Frequency Rank

Position #7,805 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.