Canteen \Can*teen"\ (k[a^]n*t[=e]n"), n. [F. cantine bottle case, canteen (cf. Sp. & It. cantina cellar, bottle case), either contr. fr. It. canovettina, dim. of canova cellar, or, more likely, fr. OF. cant. corner, It. & Sp. canto. See 1st Cant.]

(Mil.)

1. A vessel used by soldiers for carrying water, liquor, or other drink. [Written also cantine.]

Note: In the English service the canteen is made of wood and holds three pints; in the United States it is usually a tin flask.

2. The sutler's shop in a garrison; also, a chest containing culinary and other vessels for officers.

Source: Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913)