canned

adjective

ˈkand 

1

: preserved in a sealed can or jar

canned peaches

canned pumpkin

2

a

: prepared or recorded in advance

especially : prepared in standardized form for nonspecific use or wide distribution

canned laughter

canned music

b

: lacking originality or individuality as if mass-produced

a canned speech

3

slang : drunk sense 1a

Synonyms

• imitative
• imitation
• mock
• copied
• formulaic
• misleading

Examples of canned in a Sentence

The salesperson kept using the same canned phrases.

there's a canned quality to the screenplay that reminds you of countless other action movies

Recent Examples on the Web

It’s also looked to highlight its growing business selling household staples such as paper towels, cleaning supplies, bottled drinks and canned food. —Annie Palmer, CNBC, 13 Aug. 2025

The addition further bolsters Dunkin’s alcohol selection, which includes seasonal beers and canned cocktails. —Jordan Valinsky, CNN Money, 5 Aug. 2025

However, canned tuna is an excellent alternative for those on a tighter budget or seeking a slightly higher protein content. —Lauren Manaker Ms, Health, 22 July 2025

In eight states, including Stateside’s Pennsylvania, laws have also recently changed to allow canned cocktails to sell more freely. —Chloe Sorvino, Forbes.com, 27 July 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1856, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for canned

• armband
• backhand
• bandstand
• baseband
• broadband
• command
• cropland
• demand
• disband
• dreamland
• expand
• farmhand

Kids Definition

canned

adjective

ˈkand 

1

: preserved in a sealed can or jar

canned peaches

2

a

: prepared or recorded in advance

especially : prepared in one form for ordinary use or wide distribution

canned laughter

b

: lacking originality as if mass-produced

a canned speech