Definition

Noun: A container, typically with a lid, designed to hold waste materials until they are collected for disposal.

Usage

The term "trash can" refers specifically to the physical receptacle for discarded items. It is commonly used in everyday contexts to describe where to put garbage. - Please throw the empty wrapper in the trash can. - The kitchen trash can needs to be emptied.

Advanced Usage

• "to take out the trash can": This phrase can mean to physically remove the container for cleaning or collection, though it more commonly refers to removing the bag of trash from inside it.
  • Could you take out the trash can? It's collection day tomorrow.

Variants and Related Words

• Garbage can (n): A direct synonym, more common in some regions.
• Wastebasket (n): Typically a smaller container, often for paper, used indoors in offices or studies.
• Dustbin (n): A synonym more common in British English.
• Trash (n): The waste material itself, not the container.
• Bin (n): A general term for a container, which can include a trash can.

Synonyms

• Garbage can
• Waste bin
• Rubbish bin (common in British English)

Related Phrases

• "Trash can liner": A plastic bag placed inside the can to hold the trash.
  • I need to buy more trash can liners.
• "Kick the trash can": An idiom suggesting an act of frustration or vandalism.
  • He was so angry he wanted to kick the trash can.

Noun

1. a bin that holds rubbish until it is collected