Canned/kænd/ Definition 1 of 3Pro Tip 1/3Preserved Food Canned typically refers to food preserved and sealed in a metal container. She stocked up on canned vegetables for the winter. Pro Tip 2/3Long Shelf Life Canned goods are known for lasting a long time without spoiling. Canned tomatoes can stay good for years in your pantry. Pro Tip 3/3Quick Meals People often use canned foods to make meals faster, as they're pre-cooked. He used canned chili to whip up a quick dinner.