Gallon Meaning and Definition
Gallon
Pronunciation
/ˈɡælən/
Part of Speech
Noun
Definition
A unit of volume equal to four quarts or 128 fluid ounces.
Examples
- I need to fill up a gallon of milk for the week.
- The car’s gas tank can hold up to a gallon of fuel.
Synonyms
- Quart
- Liter
Antonyms
- Ounce
- Pint
Etymology
The word “gallon” comes from the French word “jalin” and is believed to be named after Saint Gall, a 7th-century Irish monk who was known for his travels and knowledge of the metric system.
Usage Notes
In formal writing, it is recommended to use the full phrase “gallon” instead of abbreviations like “gal” to ensure clarity and precision.
Cultural References
The word “gallon” has appeared in popular culture in songs, such as “Gallon Jug” by The O’Donnell Sisters, and in literature, such as in Herman Melville’s novel “Moby-Dick”.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
Fill ‘er up!: a common idiomatic phrase used to ask someone to fill a container, usually a gas tank, to the gallon.
Related Words or Phrases
- Liter
- Quart
- Ounce
Collocations
gas tank gallon, milk gallon, coffee gallon
Frequency of Use
The word “gallon” is commonly used in everyday language, particularly in contexts related to food, beverages, and transportation.
Common Misspellings
- Galon
- Galen
- Gallon