garbage can

noun

1. a container, usually of metal or plastic, for the disposal of waste matter, especially kitchen refuse.

garbage can

noun

1. a large, usually cylindrical container for refuse, esp one used by a household Also calledash binash cantrash canin Britain (and certain other countries)dustbin

Word History and Origins

Origin of garbage can¹

An Americanism dating back to 1905–10

Example Sentences

Moreover, Trump and the other fascists and racial authoritarians believe that the United States is a “garbage can” because of nonwhite immigrants like Harris’ parents.

From Salon

A greatness he refuses to recognize and, instead, refers to the United States as the “garbage can for the world.”

From Los Angeles Times

Trump has made almost the same comment as Biden did, but about Harris’ supporters — calling them “garbage” and “scum” — and has called America overall a “dumping ground” and a “garbage can” for the world.

From Los Angeles Times

Trump recently made similar comments when he described how “illegal aliens” and other “undesirables” turned the United States into the world’s “garbage can.”

From Salon

Trump has taken to riding around in a Trump-branded garbage can and cosplaying as a sanitation worker.

From Salon

Related Words

• dustbin
• trash can