Yes, in slang, the word "can" indeed means backside.
The word "can" possesses a surprisingly diverse range of meanings in the English language. Beyond its common uses as a modal verb (e.g., "I can help") or a noun referring to a metal container (e.g., "a can of soda"), it also functions as a versatile slang term. When used informally or as slang, its meaning deviates significantly from its literal interpretations, often referring to parts of the body, places, or actions.
Slang Meanings of 'Can'
According to linguistic references, "can" is a slang word with several distinct meanings. It's crucial to understand these variations to grasp the full scope of its usage:
- Rear End / Backside: This is a direct synonym for the buttocks or posterior. When someone refers to a "can" in this context, they are speaking of the backside. For example, if someone "falls on their can," it means they landed on their rear end.
- Toilet: In informal settings, "can" can refer to a restroom or lavatory. This usage is common in casual conversation, such as, "I need to go to the can."
- To Fire (Dismiss from a Job): Another prevalent slang application of "can" is to mean dismissing someone from employment. The provided reference explicitly illustrates this meaning: "Watch out, the boss canned three people yesterday!" This implies that three employees were terminated from their jobs.
Context is Key
Because "can" has multiple slang meanings, understanding its intended use in any given conversation heavily relies on the context. While the question specifically focuses on its meaning as "backside," being aware of its other slang applications helps prevent misinterpretations and provides a more comprehensive understanding of the term.
Summary of Slang Definitions
To provide a clear overview, here's a table summarizing the primary slang definitions of "can" and their respective contexts:
| Slang Meaning | Definition / Context | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Rear End | The buttocks; the backside. | "He landed right on his can when he slipped." |
| Toilet | A restroom or lavatory. | "Excuse me, where's the can?" |
| To Fire | To dismiss someone from employment. | "The company decided to can several unproductive employees." |
In summary, yes, when used as slang, "can" does mean backside (rear end).
