Canasta vs. cesta vs. cesto
The Spanish language features several words to denote 'basket'. Among these are 'canasta', 'cesta', and 'cesto'. While they bear a similar meaning, their usage can depend on the context, region, or certain specific characteristics.
Canasta
'Canasta' generally refers to a larger basket, often with a lid. It may also infer to a particular type of game involving cards.
La fruta está en la canasta grande.
(The fruit is in the large basket.)
Vamos a jugar a la canasta.
(We're going to play Canasta.)
Cesta
'Cesta' is a general term for basket and is typically used for smaller, more portable baskets. It can refer to shopping baskets or picnic baskets as well.
Ella lleva una cesta al mercado.
(She carries a basket to the market.)
Vamos a hacer un picnic y trae una cesta llena de comida.
(We're going on a picnic and bringing along a basket full of food.)
Cesto
'Cesto' typically refers to an open-top style basket that doesn't have a lid. This word could be used when referring to trashbins and laundry hampers.
Por favor, tira los papeles en el cesto.
(Please throw the papers in the bin.)
La ropa sucia va en el cesto de la ropa.
(The dirty clothes go in the laundry basket.)
Summary
While the three words 'canasta', 'cesta' and 'cesto' all denote types of 'baskets', they are used differently according to their characteristics, context and regional preferences. 'Canasta' is most often used for larger, covered baskets (or for referring to the card game), 'cesta' indicates more portable types of small baskets such as shopping or picnic baskets, and 'cesto' is typically used for open-top baskets like waste bins or laundry hampers.