can

can

verb

Definition of CAN

slang

to bring (as an action or operation) to an immediate end <can the chatter, or I'm kicking you out of this library>

Synonyms break, break off, break up, can [slang], cease, cut off, cut out, desist (from), discontinue, drop, end, give over, halt, knock off, lay off, leave off, pack (up or in), quit, shut off

Related Words complete, conclude, finish; close (down); deactivate; block, blockade, dam, delay, detain, hinder, hold, hold back, impede, kibosh, obstruct, stem; call, suspend; arrest, brake, check, clamp down, rein (in), squash, squelch, stamp, stanch (or staunch), stunt, suppress, turn back; pause, stay, suspend; abolish, abort, annul, demolish, destroy, dissolve, kill, ruin, scuttle, snuff

Near Antonyms carry on, continue, follow through (with), keep up, run on; advance, proceed, progress; actuate, drive, impel, propel, stir

2

to let go from office, service, or employment <the cashier was summarily canned for stealing from the registers>

Synonyms ax (or axe), bounce, can, cashier, discharge, fire, muster out, pink-slip, release, remove, retire, sack, terminate, turn off

Related Words downsize, excess, furlough, lay off, trim; boot (out), chuck (out), drum (out), kick out, throw out, unseat; separate

Near Antonyms keep; reemploy, rehire; contract, subcontract; recruit

Antonyms employ, engage, hire, retain, sign (up or on), take on