Apr 6, 2026 · The meaning of CANT is the expression or repetition of conventional or trite opinions or sentiments; especially : the insincere use of pious words. How to use cant in a sentence.

CANT definition: insincere, especially conventional expressions of enthusiasm for high ideals, goodness, or piety. See examples of cant used in a sentence.

Tedious or hackneyed language, especially when used sanctimoniously: "a merciless onslaught upon the cant of the age, the cant about progress, equality, [and] universal education" (C. Vann Woodward).

Cant is language repeated so often and so mechanically that it's essentially empty of meaning. Cant can also mean the specialized jargon of a particular group — like the "cant of piracy" (e.g., Ahoy! Lubber! …

If you refer to moral or religious statements as cant, you are criticizing them because you think the person making them does not really believe what they are saying.

May 6, 2026 · Although may and can are synonyms, can’t/cannot and may not (including their uncontracted forms) are not, except when used interrogatively.

Can’t and cant are pronounced in the same way and almost spelled the same way, but the meanings are very different. We will discuss the meaning of can’t and cant, their origins and look at a few examples …

There are 14 meanings listed in OED's entry for the noun cant, four of which are labelled obsolete. See ‘Meaning & use’ for definitions, usage, and quotation evidence.

Cant definition: Angular deviation from a vertical or horizontal plane or surface; an inclination or slope.