garbage can

NOUN

container for rubbish

Synonyms

STRONGEST

dustbin trash can

WEAK

Dumpster™ ashcan circular file garbage pail trash basket waste basket wastebin wastepaper basket

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.

“No Black person’s ever asked me why Mookie threw the garbage can through the window,” he notes.

From The Wall Street Journal • Oct. 20, 2025

A few minutes later I came upon another man, who was digging through a garbage can for something to drink.

From Salon • Aug. 5, 2025

When the dog found the correct garbage can, officers eventually knocked it over.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 4, 2025

I’d hide forbidden foods in the garbage can in my bedroom.

From Slate • Jul. 20, 2024

I saw myself dropping my socks into the garbage can next to the sink.

From "Anthem of a Reluctant Prophet" by Joanne Proulx