The phrase "fill er up" is a popular slang expression used to ask for a tank of gasoline to be refilled. The word "fill" is spelled as /fɪl/, where the "i" is pronounced as "ih" sound and the "l" is pronounced as a soft "l." The word "er" is spelled as /ər/, which represents the schwa sound in English, and is commonly found in unstressed syllables. The word "up" is spelled as /ʌp/, which is pronounced as the "uh" sound followed by a soft "p" sound.
"Fill 'er up" is an idiomatic expression commonly used in informal contexts, particularly in North American English. It is primarily associated with the refueling of automobiles or any vehicle that requires fuel. This expression is most often heard at gas stations or when someone wants to request the act of replenishing the fuel tank.
The phrase "fill 'er up" is believed to have originated during the early 20th century, a time when gas stations employed attendants to pump fuel for customers. It became a popular phrase as more people started owning automobiles, and the act of filling a gas tank became routine.
The term itself is a concise way of asking the gas station attendant to completely fill the fuel tank. The word "her" is used as a substitute for the possessive "it," referring to the vehicle. The word "up" emphasizes the need for a complete fill.
"Fill 'er up" is not restricted to gasoline or diesel fuel but can be used for any type of vehicle that requires refueling, including motorcycles, boats, or even lawn mowers. Although the use of the phrase has decreased over time due to the self-service fueling options at gas stations, it still evokes a sense of nostalgia and is occasionally used during casual or humorous conversations related to refueling vehicles.