from
The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48
Canister \Can"is*ter\ (k[a^]n"[i^]s*t[~e]r), n. [L. canistrum a
basket woven from reeds Gr. ?, fr. ka`nh, ka`nna reed; cf. F.
canistre. See {Cane}, and {Canaster}.]
1. A small basket of rushes, reeds, or willow twigs, etc.
[1913 Webster]
2. A small box or case for holding tea, coffee, etc.
[1913 Webster]
3. (Mil.) A kind of case shot for cannon, in which a number
of lead or iron balls in layers are inclosed in a case
fitting the gun; -- called also {canister shot}.
[1913 Webster]