Oxford Advanced American Dictionary

Definition of can noun from the Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary

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can

2noun
can pronunciation English kæn can pronunciation American kæn
 
see also can1
1 (British English also tin) [countable] a metal container in which food and drink is solda can of beansa beer/paint can
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In North American English can is the usual word used for both food and drink. In British English can is always used for drink, but tin or can can be used for food, paint, etc.
2 [countable] the amount contained in a canWe drank a can of Coke each.3 [countable] a metal or plastic container for holding or carrying liquidsan oil cana watering can4 [countable] a metal container in which liquids are kept under pressure and let out in a fine spray when you press a button on the lida can of hairspray5 the can [singular] (North American English, slang) prison6 the can [singular] (North American English, slang) the toilet
Idioms

a can of worms

(informal) if you open up a can of worms, you start doing something that will cause a lot of problems and be very difficult

be in the can

(informal) (especially of filmed or recorded material) to be completed and ready for use
more at carry the can at carry