bin
7 synonyms for bin, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Noun — A container used to hold or throw away items.
Synonyms
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
How to use bin
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
recycling bin
bin it
storage bin
Etymology
From Middle English bynne, from Old English binn ("crib, manger"), possibly borrowed from a Celtic word for a cart or basket.
Full origin of bin →Frequently asked questions
What does “bin” mean?
The word “bin” means a container used to hold or throw away items. In plain terms, a container for trash or storage, or the act of throwing something out or sorting it into groups.
How do you pronounce “bin”?
“Bin” is pronounced BIHN (/ˈbɪn/ in IPA).
How do you use “bin” in a sentence?
Here is “bin” used in a sentence: “Put the empty bottles in the recycling bin.”
What part of speech is “bin”?
Depending on how it is used, “bin” can be a noun and a verb.
Where does the word “bin” come from?
The word “bin” comes from Old English. From Middle English bynne, from Old English binn ("crib, manger"), possibly borrowed from a Celtic word for a cart or basket.
Is “bin” a common word?
“Bin” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the B1 level.
How many meanings does “bin” have?
“Bin” has 3 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a container used to hold or throw away items.
What is the difference between a "bin" and a "trash can"?
They refer to the same thing: "bin" (or "dustbin," "rubbish bin") is the usual British term, while "trash can" or "garbage can" is more common in American English. Both name a container for holding or discarding items.
Can "bin" be used as a verb?
Yes. In British English, to "bin" something means to throw it away, as in "I binned the old receipts." This use is informal and mainly appears in conversation.
Is "bin" British or American English?
"Bin" for a waste container is chiefly British English, though it is widely understood elsewhere. Americans more often say "trash can," "garbage can," or "wastebasket."
