Pottle is a noun that refers to a small pot or container typically used for transportation, storage and sale of perishable goods such as butter, cream or milk. Its pronunciation is /ˈpɒt(ə)l/ which is written in IPA phonetic transcription. The word originates from the Old English word "pottel" which means a small pot. Pottle remains a useful word in describing antique containers or furnishing. While the word is not commonly used in contemporary discourse, it is still present in some regional dialects.
A pottle refers to a small, usually cylindrical container typically used for measuring or holding liquid or dry substances. It is often made of wood, metal, or earthenware, and has a capacity of approximately two quarts or half a gallon. The term "pottle" historically originated from the Old French word "potel" or "potele," meaning a small pot or container.
In various contexts, a pottle can serve different purposes. In cooking and food preparation, a pottle can be used to measure ingredients or store small quantities of perishable items such as berries or fruits. It can also be utilized for serving beverages or condiments at the dining table. Moreover, during the medieval period, a pottle often referred to a liquid measure, primarily used for wine or ale.
Furthermore, in references to historical contexts, the term "pottle" can describe a specific unit of measure for commodities like grain or coal. In this sense, it represents a standardized volume measurement. The pottle unit can vary depending on the region and commodity being measured, such as a pottle of grain versus a pottle of coal.
Overall, the term "pottle" serves as a versatile noun encompassing a wide range of small containers or measures utilized in various domains, including cooking, serving, and measuring.
A measure of two quarts; a small conical basket for containing small fruit.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "pottle" has its origins in Middle English from the 14th century. It derives from the Old French word "potel", which referred to a small container or vessel. The Old French term itself came from the Latin word "pottus", meaning a small pot or vessel. Over time, the word "pottle" specifically came to be used to describe a particular size of a liquid container or drinking vessel.