Can"is*ter (?), n. [L. canistrum a basket woven from reeds Gr. , fr. , reed; cf. F. canistre. See Cane, and Canaster.]
1.
A small basket of rushes, or wilow 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,
© Webster 1913.