Author: Naked Lime Marketing
Date: June 21, 2021
Topics:
Take the Automotive Etymology Quiz here!
This slang term for a gas can originated back in the second World War, when American GIs started using a German-designed fluid canister to transport water and gas from place to place. The German version was far superior to that being used by the Allies, and after a few failed designs of our own, America reverse-engineered the German version and sent thousands overseas to aid in the war. Soldiers recognized this design as being German in origin, and since a slang word for a German was a “Jerry,” it was only befitting to name the canister such.
Admittedly, this one has never been confirmed, but legend has it that Mitsubishi meant to name its new sport coupe the “Stallion” to go along with its Colt. A 1980’s low quality phone call between Japan and marketers in the U.S. allegedly lead to the car being advertised as Starion.
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