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Gallon Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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gallon

[หˆษกรฆlษ™n ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

unit of measurement

A unit of volume measurement equal to four quarts or eight pints, commonly used in the United States for measuring liquids such as gasoline or milk.

Synonyms

US gallon.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
gallon

This can also refer to a generic unit of volume measurement, where the specific context or region has to be inferred. For example, when speaking broadly or in an international context where details are not specified.

  • They measured the water in gallons.
  • The recipe calls for two gallons of water.
US gallon

Refers specifically to the United States gallon, used in the US. It is slightly smaller than the imperial gallon and is standard in American recipes, fuel measurements, and other contexts.

  • The car's fuel tank holds 20 US gallons of gasoline.
  • I need a US gallon of paint for this project.

Examples of usage

  • The car's gas tank can hold up to 15 gallons of gasoline.
  • She bought a gallon of milk from the grocery store.
Context #2 | Noun

historical context

Originally, a gallon was a unit of measurement for wine and beer in England, equal to approximately 4.5 liters.

Synonyms

ale gallon.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
gallon

This repetition seems to be an error as it doesn't represent a different meaning or context from the first 'gallon'.

  • Please refer to the first description of 'gallon'
ale gallon

Historically, an 'ale gallon' was a specific unit of measure in the British Imperial System, traditionally used for beer. It is less common today and is mostly found in historical texts or discussions about historical practices.

  • In the 18th century, an ale gallon was commonly used to measure beer
  • According to old records, the brewery produced 500 ale gallons of beer each week

Examples of usage

  • In medieval times, a gallon of ale was a common purchase at the local tavern.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Science

  • A gallon of water weighs about 8.34 pounds (3.78 kg) at room temperature, showcasing the density of fluids.
  • The U.S. gallon differs from the imperial gallon used in the UK, with the latter being about 20% larger.
  • In scientific contexts, conversions are essential: 1 gallon equals approximately 3.785 liters for precise calculations.

Cultural Usage

  • In the U.S., gasoline is sold by the gallon, making it a common term during debates about fuel prices.
  • Recipes in American cuisine often list ingredients in gallons, especially for large quantities or bulk cooking.
  • The gallon is also common in farming, where liquids like milk or water are measured for livestock.

Pop Culture

  • The phrase 'gallon of milk a day' became popular due to diet fads and health trends emphasizing dairy.
  • Movies and shows sometimes feature characters buying gallons of drinks, exaggerating the size to make comedic effects.
  • In various songs and artwork, large containers like gallons symbolize abundance or excess, playing on cultural interpretations.

History

  • Different regions historically have varied in how they defined the gallon, leading to confusion in trade.
  • In the 19th century, the U.S. standardized its gallon measurement, promoting consistency in commerce.
  • Gallon-sized containers have emerged in various historical inventions, like the gallon jug seen in many kitchens today.

Origin of 'gallon'

Main points about word origin

  • The term 'gallon' comes from the Old French word 'galon', which meant a measuring container.
  • In Middle English, it was spelled 'galoun', reflecting its evolution through language.
  • The measurement has roots in various early unit systems used for trade and commerce, highlighting its importance in history.

The word 'gallon' has its origins in Old Northern French, derived from the Old French word 'galon', meaning a liquid measure. The term was later adopted into Middle English as 'galone' in the 13th century. Over time, the gallon became a standard unit of measurement for liquids, particularly in the United States and United Kingdom.

Word Frequency Rank

At #6,649 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.