plural canes
1
: a short stick that often has a curved handle and is used to help someone to walk
a wooden cane
2
: a form of punishment in which a person is hit with a cane or stick
In the past, some teachers would resort to the cane when students misbehaved.
3
: the hard hollow stem of a plant (such as bamboo or reed) that is used to make furniture and baskets
The chair seat is made of cane.
woven strips of cane
4
canes; caned; caning
: to hit (someone) with a cane or stick as a form of punishment
In the past, some teachers would cane students who misbehaved.
Cite this Entry
“Cane.” Merriam-Webster.com Simple Definition, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/simple/cane. Accessed 18 Jun. 2026.
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