First recorded in 1865–70
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
One character, for reasons you’ll observe, wordlessly switches from soup cans that require them to use a can opener to ones with a pull tab.
From Los Angeles Times • Aug. 7, 2025
A manual can opener is a must for accessing canned goods, while a hand-crank food processor can help with basic meal prep.
From Salon • Oct. 10, 2024
His AK-47 is slung over his shoulder; on his body armour hangs a spoon, a can opener, and a small pair of pliers.
From BBC • Mar. 23, 2023
We always had a rack or two of canned goods as well, and they kept a can opener and eating utensils down there as well.
From Seattle Times • Oct. 31, 2022
I went into a store and bought a can of pork and beans and a can opener.
From "Black Boy" by Richard Wright
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
