GNU Collaborative International Dictionary of English

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1.       
   Canteen (kăn‑tēnˈ), n. [F. cantine bottle case, canteen (cf. Sp. & It. cantina cellar, bottle case), either contr. fr. It. canovettina, dim. of canova cellar, or, more likely, fr. OF. cant. corner, It. & Sp. canto. See 1st Cant.] (Mil.)
   1. A small vessel used by soldiers or hikers for carrying water, liquor, or other drink. [Written also cantine.]
   
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   ☞ In 1910 in the English service the canteen is made of wood and holds three pints; in the United States it is usually a tin flask.
   
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   2. A chest containing culinary and other vessels for military officers in a garrison.
   
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   3. The sutler's shop in a garrison.
   
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   4. Hence: A store or small shop within a larger establishment where refreshments and sometimes other supplies are sold.  At a military base the canteen may be as large as a general store; within a school or small company it may be only a small counter with very limited supplies, or a snack bar.
   
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   5. A temporary location where food is dispensed during an emergency.
   
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