'canister shot' definitions:

Definition of 'canister shot'

(from WordNet)
noun
A metallic cylinder packed with shot and used as ammunition in a firearm [syn: case shot, canister, canister shot]

Definition of 'canister shot'

From: GCIDE
  • Canister \Can"is*ter\ (k[a^]n"[i^]s*t[~e]r), n. [L. canistrum a basket woven from reeds Gr. ?, fr. ka`nh, ka`nna reed; cf. F. canistre. See Cane, and Canaster.]
  • 1. A small basket of rushes, reeds, or willow twigs, etc. [1913 Webster]
  • 2. A small box or case for holding tea, coffee, etc. [1913 Webster]
  • 3. (Mil.) A kind of case shot for cannon, in which a number of lead or iron balls in layers are inclosed in a case fitting the gun; -- called also canister shot. [1913 Webster]