spray can

[/spreɪ kæn/]
nounpl: spray cans
lata de spray
1. A pressurized metal container that dispenses a substance (paint, insecticide, deodorant, etc.) in a fine mist or stream when a button is pressed
The artist used a spray can to create the street art mural.
O artista usou uma lata de spray para criar o mural de arte de rua.
2. A tool commonly used in graffiti art for applying paint to surfaces
Graffiti writers prefer high-quality spray cans for better control.
Os escritores de graffiti preferem latas de spray de alta qualidade para melhor controle.
Spray cans are deeply associated with graffiti and street art culture, particularly in urban areas of both Brazil and the United States. In Brazil, spray cans are also commonly used for household purposes like insect control and air freshening. In NYC and urban American culture, spray cans are iconic tools of hip-hop and graffiti movements, with specific brands and 'caps' (nozzle types) being highly valued by artists.
NYC Slang
can (used by graffiti/hip-hop culture: 'grab a can', 'throw up with a can')
Synonyms / Sinônimos
aerosol canspray bottlepressurized containeratomizer
Antonyms / Antônimos
brushrollerpen

Regional Variations

General Brazilian
lata de spray
Most common and standard term throughout Brazil
Rio de Janeiro
lata de tinta
Sometimes used colloquially, especially in street art communities
São Paulo
lata de spray
Standard usage, particularly in hip-hop and graffiti culture
Portugal
lata de pulverização
More formal term; 'spray' also used informally

Related Words

aerosolnozzlepropellantgraffitipaintmist

Related Idioms & Phrases

spray can art
spray can graffiti
can control (skill with spray cans)
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