Canteen: meaning, definitions and examples

Often used to refer to a place within a school, factory, or office building where meals are provided at a lower cost.

• I bought my lunch from the canteen today.
• The factory workers usually eat in the canteen.

Commonly used in the United States, particularly in schools, hospitals, or businesses, to refer to a place where people can pick up food on a tray and pay for it at the end of the line.

• Let's meet in the cafeteria for lunch.
• The hospital has a cafeteria that serves healthy meals.

Typically refers to a large room where meals are served, often found in institutions like colleges, universities, or boarding schools.

• The students gathered in the dining hall for breakfast.
• The dining hall is open from 7 AM to 9 PM.

While it's the same word as the aforementioned one, it can also refer specifically to the portable container in a military context. Generally, it’s used to carry water.

• The soldier took a sip from his canteen during a break.
• Make sure your canteen is full before we start the march.

A water bottle is a general term for any portable container designed specifically for holding drinking water. It is commonly used in everyday situations and can be made of plastic, metal, or glass.

• Don't forget to bring your water bottle to the gym.
• She always keeps a water bottle on her desk.

A flask is often used to describe a small container for liquids and is usually associated with carrying alcoholic beverages or hot drinks. It can have a connotation of discreetness, especially with alcohol.

• He took a swig from his whiskey flask.
• She always carries a flask of coffee with her.