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Reefer Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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reefer

[หˆriหfษ™r ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

frozen transport

A 'reefer' is a slang term for a refrigerated container or trailer used to transport perishable goods, such as fruits, vegetables, dairy products, and meat. These refrigerated units are widely used in the shipping and logistics industries to ensure that temperature-sensitive cargo remains fresh during transit. Reefer trucks are equipped with powerful cooling systems to maintain the necessary temperature for various types of products. They play a crucial role in the global supply chain by allowing food and other perishable items to be shipped over long distances without spoiling.

Synonyms

cooler, fridge truck, refrigerated container.

Examples of usage

  • The truck was filled with boxes of strawberries in a reefer.
  • They shipped the seafood in a reefer to maintain freshness.
  • The ports are equipped with numerous reefer connections.
Context #2 | Noun

slang term

In a different context, 'reefer' is also a slang term for a marijuana cigarette. This usage derives from the association of smoking marijuana with a less formal, often rebellious lifestyle. The term often evokes images of the counterculture movements of the 1960s and 70s. It is used among casual and informal speakers to refer to joints or large marijuana cigarettes, often in social or recreational contexts.

Synonyms

cigarette, joint, spliff.

Examples of usage

  • They rolled a reefer to share at the party.
  • He prefers smoking a reefer over a pipe.
  • The movie depicted a group of friends passing around reefer.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Transportation

  • Reefer trucks are equipped with powerful refrigeration units that can maintain temperatures between -20ยฐF to 70ยฐF.
  • These trucks play a crucial role in the supply chain, allowing for the transport of fresh produce across long distances.
  • The use of reefers has expanded dramatically since the 1940s, significantly impacting how food is distributed globally.

Pop Culture

  • In certain subcultures, 'reefer' is also a term for marijuana, adding an additional layer to the word's cultural significance.
  • Various movies have featured reefer trucks in action, highlighting their importance in both comedy and suspenseful situations.
  • Songs about trucking often reference reefer trailers, showcasing the lifestyle of long-haul drivers.

Science

  • The technology behind reefers includes advanced thermodynamics and insulation techniques to optimize cold storage.
  • Refrigi-ware technology has contributed to energy-efficient solutions to reduce the environmental impact of transport.
  • Innovations such as GPS tracking have improved the management and performance of reefer trucks, enhancing food safety.

Environmental Impact

  • Reefer trucks are increasingly being redesigned to lower their carbon footprint, incorporating more sustainable materials.
  • Cold chain logistics are vital in reducing food waste, as they ensure perishable items remain consumable for longer periods.
  • Refrigeration units are now moving towards using eco-friendly refrigerants to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

Origin of 'reefer'

Main points about word origin

  • The term 'reefer' originated from the word 'refrigerate', reflecting its purpose of keeping items cool.
  • In maritime contexts, 'reefer' can refer specifically to a ship designed to carry perishable cargo.
  • Initially, the term was slang used in the 1950s in the U.S. to describe a refrigerated trailer.

The term 'reefer' originally comes from the word 'referring', which means to bring back or to refer to something. In freight shipping, 'reefer' was adopted in the mid-20th century to describe refrigerated containers designed to transport perishable goods. The evolution of shipping methods emphasized the need for preserving food quality during long-distance transport, which led to the creation of these specialized containers. Over time, the word transitioned in the 1960s to acquire a second meaning within the counterculture as a slang term for a marijuana cigarette, reflecting the cultural shift and changing attitudes toward marijuana use. This dual meaning showcases how language evolves in response to societal changes.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #32,908 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.