garbage can

noun

1. a container, usually of metal or plastic, for the disposal of waste matter, especially kitchen refuse.

garbage can

noun

1. Also called: ash bin.  ash can.  trash can.  dustbin. a large, usually cylindrical container for refuse, esp one used by a household

Word History and Origins

Origin of garbage can¹

An Americanism dating back to 1905–10

Example Sentences

Once, he even called out a Reds player’s lack of hustle on the basepaths — and ended up stuffed in a garbage can.

From Los Angeles Times

A few minutes later I came upon another man, who was digging through a garbage can for something to drink.

From Salon

In her clip, the bear and the coyote are seemingly enjoying the spoils of a spilled garbage can, surveying the neighborhood while they weigh their next move.

From Los Angeles Times

When the dog found the correct garbage can, officers eventually knocked it over.

From Los Angeles Times

It's not the most important norm that Trump has thrown in the garbage can in his first month in office but it's a telling one.

From Salon

Related Words

• dustbin 
• trash can