1. plural of cannister; small containers, typically cylindrical and made of metal or plastic, used for storing dry goods such as tea, coffee, flour, or sugar
Usage: common in kitchens for food storage; also spelled 'canisters' (more common in modern usage)
2. plural of cannister; cylindrical metal containers used to hold and dispense gases, liquids, or powders, such as tear gas canisters or oxygen canisters
Usage: technical/industrial use

Examples

• She stored flour and sugar in matching cannisters on the kitchen counter.
• The police used tear gas cannisters to disperse the crowd.
• These metal cannisters keep the coffee fresh longer than paper bags.
• The emergency kit contained oxygen cannisters for medical use.
• Decorative cannisters can add style to any kitchen.
• The cannisters were arranged neatly on the pantry shelf.