What does jerrycan mean?
A jerrycan is a portable container, most often a rigid metal can with flat sides, carrying handles, and a distinctive pouring spout. It is used principally for transporting fuel such as petrol, diesel, or kerosene, although it can also hold other liquids. Its practical design made it especially useful in military, agricultural, and emergency contexts: the flat sides allow containers to be stacked, the handles support substantial loads, and the spout helps control pouring. Jerricans became internationally recognizable during the Second World War, when standardized fuel containers were widely used by armed forces. Today, the term also refers to similar portable cans sold for carrying water, solvents, or other liquids. Although similar to an ordinary can in basic function, a jerrycan is distinguished by its larger capacity, reinforced body, and purpose-built handles and spout.
nounA portable container, typically made of metal, with flat sides, handles, and a pouring spout, used chiefly for carrying fuel or other liquids.
- A portable container used for carrying fuel or other liquids, especially a flat-sided metal can with handles and a pouring spout.
"He carried an empty jerrycan down to the garage."
"The driver checked the jerrycan before setting off across the desert."
"She poured the remaining solvent from a jerrycan into a glass bottle."
The usual plural is “jerrycans,” although “jerry cans” may also be pluralized as two words.
"The workers stacked several jerrycans beside the generator."
Its Second World War-era design became a military standard: flat sides for stacking, sturdy handles for carrying, and a spout for controlled pouring.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does jerrycan come from?
“Jerrycan” is a compound of the informal name “Jerry” and the word “can.” It became established during the Second World War, particularly in military English, although the precise origin of the nickname component remains uncertain. The form “jerry can,” with two words, is also widely used, especially in American English.
How jerrycan is actually used
In British English, the one-word form is standard. In American English, both “jerrycan” and “jerry can” are used, with the two-word spelling more common.