cane

B2 · Upper Intermediate Countable noun

n. the long, hollow stem of plants like bamboo or sugar.

n. the woody, often hollow or jointed stem of certain perennial grasses, such as bamboo or sugar cane.

Español:caña

“Workers spent the day in the fields cutting down the sugar cane.”

“The plantation stretched for miles, with rows of tall cane swaying rhythmically in the tropical breeze.”

C1 · Advanced Uncountable noun Technical

n. strips of flexible wood used to make the seats or backs of chairs.

n. split rattan or similar flexible plant material woven into wickerwork for furniture.

“The old wooden chair had a seat made of woven cane.”

“The restorer spent hours meticulously replacing the damaged cane on the antique Victorian armchair to match the original pattern.”

B2 · Upper Intermediate

v. to hit someone with a stick as a punishment.

v. to inflict corporal punishment by striking with a cane. Transitive; usually implies a formal or historical disciplinary context.

“In the past, teachers were allowed to cane students who misbehaved.”

“Historical records indicate that the headmaster would cane any pupil found guilty of serious academic dishonesty.”

C1 · Advanced British English · Slang

v. to do something very fast or with a lot of energy.

v. to perform an action with great speed, intensity, or competence. Often used in the context of driving or sports.

“He was really caning it down the motorway to get home on time.”

“The team started caning the opposition in the second half, scoring three goals in quick succession.”