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Definition of jerrycan

jerrycan

/ˈdʒɛriˌkæn/
jer · ry · can
Plural:jerrycans
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jerrycan Lexical Profile

jerrycan Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

A robust, flat-sided rectangular container made of pressed steel or heavy-duty plastic, typically holding about 20 liters (5 gallons) and used for storing or transporting fuel or water.

Example

"Before driving across the remote desert highway, the expedition crew strapped two extra jerrycans of diesel to the roof rack."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for jerrycan

• Nearby Words

jerkiness
jerky
jerry
jerrycan
jersey
jersey lily
jerusalem

Word Origin & Etymology

Coined during the Second World War from 'Jerry' (British military slang for a German) and 'can', because the flat-sided pressed-steel fuel container was originally engineered and used by the German armed forces in the 1930s before being copied by the Allies.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Jerrycan. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/jerrycan
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