Green’s Dictionary of Slang

1. a vivacious, energetic woman.

1832

Satirist (London) 12 Feb. 51/3: The old tabbies here, who envy the dear Duchess of Cans-and-pans-o [...] her elasticity of limb, when dancing, have christened her The Steamer.

2. (US) an attractive woman.

c.1935

N. Baroni Night Club Moll n.p.: A peach, a plum, a reg’lar steamer!