tin-opener
Definition
Noun: A tool used for opening tins (metal containers, also called cans) by cutting or piercing the lid.
Usage Examples
- (A tool for opening a metal food container.)
- (A powered device designed for opening tins.)
Advanced Usage
"manual tin-opener": A hand-operated tool, often with a rotating blade and a turning handle.
- The manual tin-opener requires a bit of effort but is very reliable. (A non-electric version of the tool.)
"electric tin-opener": A powered appliance that opens tins automatically.
- The electric tin-opener works with the push of a button. (A motorized device for opening cans.)
Variants and Related Words
Can opener (noun): A synonym for tin-opener, more common in American English.
- He used a can opener to open the beans. (A tool for opening metal cans.)
Tin (noun): The metal container itself, often made of steel or aluminum.
- The tin of tomatoes was dented. (The metal can.)
Synonyms
- Can opener: A tool for opening cans (more common in American English).
- Opener: A general term for a device that opens containers, but often refers to a can or bottle opener.
Related Idioms
- "Open a can of worms": To create a complicated problem or set of problems.
- By asking that question, you opened a can of worms. (You introduced a difficult situation.) Note: This idiom uses "can" metaphorically, not directly related to "tin-opener."