Jerrican is a container designed to hold liquids, typically fuel. This word originated during World War II by the British forces in North Africa. The IPA phonetic transcription of jerrican is /ˈdʒɛrɪkən/. It is spelled with two r's to indicate the French origin of the word, and the letter c instead of k is believed to be a result of the influence of French spelling. Despite being spelled differently in various English-speaking countries, jerrican remains a commonly recognized term for a fuel container.
A jerrican refers to a sturdy, rectangular or cylindrical container, typically made of plastic or metal, used for storing and transporting liquids. It is specifically designed to withstand rough handling and maintain the integrity of the contents. Jerricans are commonly employed in various industries, including agriculture, automotive, and military, as well as for domestic purposes.
The name "jerrican" derives from the original concept developed during World War II by the German engineer Vinzenz Grünvogel, who designed a portable container for the German army. Its initial purpose was to transport fuel, especially for military vehicles, but its practical design led to its widespread adoption for different fluids, including water, oil, chemicals, and other liquids.
Typically featuring a capacity of around 5 to 20 liters (1 to 5 gallons), jerricans are characterized by a secure screw-on or snap-lock cap that ensures a tight seal, preventing leakage or spillage. They often come with built-in handles for easy maneuverability and are stackable, making them efficient for storage and transportation. Jerricans may have additional features such as venting mechanisms or pour spouts to facilitate dispensing without removing the cap entirely.
Due to their robust construction and versatility, jerricans have become a staple utility for numerous applications globally, providing a reliable and safe method for the containment and transportation of various liquids in a wide range of settings.
The word "jerrican" has its origins in the English language, and it is a blend of two words: "Jerry" and "can".
During World War II, the British army encountered a need for a sturdy and portable container for carrying and transporting fuel and water. They developed a specialized container, made of pressed steel, that became widely used and referred to as the "Jerry can". The name Jerry is believed to have been derived from the slang term used by the British for the Germans during the war.
Over time, the term "Jerry can" evolved into its abbreviated form "jerrican", which is now commonly used to describe any portable fuel or water container with a similar design, regardless of its material.