1. a small metal or plastic container, typically cylindrical, used for storing or dispensing dry goods such as tea, coffee, or flour
Usage: Also spelled 'canister' (preferred in modern usage)
2. a cylindrical metal case containing tear gas or other chemical agents, designed to be thrown or dispersed
Usage: Often used in military or law enforcement contexts

Examples

• She stored the tea in a decorative cannister on the kitchen shelf.
• The coffee cannister kept the beans fresh for weeks.
• Police deployed tear gas cannisters to disperse the crowd.
• A cannister of flour sat next to the sugar container.
• The old cannister had a tight-fitting lid to preserve freshness.