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.

2. A small box or case for holding tea, coffee, etc.

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.

Source: Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913)