Definition
A children's chasing game that combines elements of tag and hide-and-seek, where one player guards a can while others hide; tagged players are imprisoned, but can be freed if another player successfully kicks the can. The goal is to avoid capture while defending or liberating teammates.
Example Usage
We used to play kick the can in the neighborhood after school, hiding in bushes and behind garages.
Origin
A folk game with roots in American childhood play, documented throughout the 20th century with regional variations.
Fun Fact
The game was often played in urban and suburban neighborhoods as a way to occupy entire groups of children with minimal equipment.
Source: Definition backfill (hailey)
Related Terms
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See “kick the can” in Corporate Speak, Gen-Z Slang, Pirate Speak, and more.
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