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pull tab

American

noun

a metal tab or ring that is pulled to uncover the precut opening in a can or other container.

Etymology

Origin of pull tab

First recorded in 1960–65

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

One character, for reasons you’ll observe, wordlessly switches from soup cans that require them to use a can opener to ones with a pull tab.

From Los Angeles Times • Aug. 7, 2025

She also oversaw the canteen’s pull tab machines, which is where the Washington State Gambling Commission’s investigation started.

From Seattle Times • Feb. 24, 2023

The Roomba j7 has a polished look, and its Clean Base has a more contemporary design, with a ribbed, matte black plastic, and a faux leather pull tab for accessing the bin.

From The Verge • Jan. 17, 2022

This means that Tetra Pak is looking at such options as new pull tab designs instead of straws, as well as being sure to encourage recycling of its products.

From Washington Post • Sep. 11, 2018

Neely Miarka, 43, worked the pull tab booth at another downtown bar, selling lottery tickets.

From The Guardian • Oct. 2, 2016

Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023