CANARY SEED: the seed of the canary grass, native to the Canary Islands, but long ago naturalized in many temperate climates. Its principal use in this country is as bird food. It is generally mixed with rape and other seed that cheapen it, but the straight Canary seed is decidedly preferable. It should be kept in a dry place and away from vermin. Industrially, a flour made from Canary seed is employed in the manufacture of fine cotton goods and silk stuffs, and in the Canary Islands, Italy and North Africa it is used as food.