English Reference

Word

canned

US/ˈkænd/

UK/kˈænd/

Definitions

01food in a tin

A2 · Elementary Cooking

adj. food that is preserved and sold in a metal can.

adj. preserved in a sealed metal container for long-term storage.

“We kept some canned soup in the cupboard for emergencies.”

“The humanitarian shipment consisted primarily of canned goods and dry grains, ensuring the supplies would remain edible despite the lack of refrigeration.”

Synonyms

Antonyms

02not original or fresh

B2 · Upper Intermediate

adj. something prepared in advance that feels fake or unoriginal.

adj. prepared or recorded in advance; lacking originality, spontaneity, or customization.

“The sitcom used canned laughter to make the jokes seem funnier.”

“The politician's speech was full of canned phrases that failed to address the specific concerns of the local audience.”

Synonyms

formulaicpre-recordedstandardized

03fired from a job

C1 · Advanced Informal · American English

adj. to be told you no longer have a job.

adj. dismissed or terminated from employment.

“He got canned after he was caught sleeping at his desk.”

“Following the merger, several senior executives were canned as the new board sought to reduce redundant overhead costs.”

Antonyms

04cancelled

C1 · Advanced Informal

adj. stopped or thrown away, usually a project or a plan.

adj. discarded, cancelled, or rejected, particularly in the context of media or business projects.

“The studio canned the movie because it was too expensive to finish.”

“The editor canned the investigative piece at the last minute, fearing that the controversial findings would lead to a costly legal battle.”

Antonyms

Real-World Examples

“Or is canned gravy in a different aisle?”
Toronto Sun 2 Oct 2026
“Extreme weather may be changing the way we need to shop, with the UK government urging people to stock up on canned goods.”
BBC News 20 Sept 2026
“Whether frozen, canned or fresh, they agree that the most important takeaway is simply to eat fruit and vegetables, however they’re prepared.”
BBC 28 Apr 2020
“How common are canned replies to app reviews?”
AppReply 19 Sept 2026

This entry

Exam level
CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
Frequency
Frequent
Level
B2 · Upper Intermediate
Updated

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English Reference