Canteen
/kænˈtiːn/noun
A container for carrying drinks or a place where food and beverages are sold.
Did you know?The English word entered through French from Italian, where it was tied to a small container or compartment—proof that even ordinary words can travel through war, trade, and daily ritual.
Etymological Timeline
Late 17th Century
French
cantine
“A soldier’s food or drink container; later, a military mess or supply place”
17th Century
Italian
cantina
“A cellar, storeroom, or small compartment”
Late Latin
Latin
canthina
“A small container or compartment”
14th Century
English
canteen
“A flask or vessel for carrying drinks”
Modern English
English
canteen
“A container for drinks or a place where food and beverages are sold”