Petrol station is a British term for a place where gasoline or petrol is sold to customers. The spelling of the word "petrol" differs from the American English term "gasoline", which is commonly used in North America. The word "petrol" is pronounced as /ˈpɛtrəl/ in IPA phonetic transcription, with the stress on the first syllable. The spelling of "petrol station" follows English spelling rules, where "-tion" is used to indicate a noun form of a verb.
A petrol station, also commonly referred to as a gas station or service station, is a commercial facility where various types of fuel, primarily petrol (gasoline), are sold to motorists and other vehicles for their energy needs. It serves as a convenient location for drivers to refuel their vehicles while providing various ancillary services to meet their needs.
Typically, a petrol station consists of multiple fuel pumps equipped with nozzles to dispense petrol into vehicles' tanks. These pumps are usually connected to underground storage tanks that hold the fuel. More modern petrol stations may also offer alternative fuels such as diesel, ethanol, or compressed natural gas (CNG) to cater to a wider range of vehicles.
Besides selling fuel, petrol stations often provide additional amenities and services. These may include convenience stores selling snacks, beverages, and basic necessities, car wash facilities to keep vehicles clean, auto repair services, tire inflation and repair, and sometimes even restaurant or fast-food options. Restrooms and seating areas for customers are also commonly found in many petrol stations.
Due to their strategic locations along major highways and in urban areas, petrol stations are frequent meeting points or landmarks for travelers, commuters, and truck drivers. They play a vital role in ensuring the smooth functioning of transportation by meeting the constant demand for fuel and offering essential services to motorists.
The word "petrol station" derives from the combination of "petrol" and "station".
The term "petrol" originated in the 19th century from the word "petroleum", which refers to a flammable liquid derived from crude oil and used as fuel in internal combustion engines. "Petroleum" itself comes from the Latin words "petra" (rock) and "oleum" (oil), literally meaning "rock oil".
The word "station" traces its roots back to the Latin word "statio", which means "a standing, post, or station". In English, it refers to a place or facility designated for a particular purpose.
When combined, "petrol station" refers to a facility where petrol or gasoline can be purchased, often in the form of a service station providing fuel, maintenance, and other automotive services.