The term “growler” is commonly used to refer to a container for carrying beer. But have you ever wondered why it's called a growler? Well, let me tell you the fascinating story behind this peculiar name.
Back in the day, when beer was primarily consumed at local taverns, people would often bring their own containers to be filled up with fresh beer to take home. These containers came in various shapes and sizes, but the most common one was a 2-quart galvanized or enameled pail. It was this particular type of container that became known as a growler.
Now, you might be wondering how on earth this name came about. One theory suggests that the term “growler” originated from the sound that the beer made as it sloshed around in the container. You see, when beer is carbonated, it contains dissolved carbon dioxide. As the beer moves and jostles inside the container, it causes the carbon dioxide to escape, creating a distinctive growling or rumbling noise. It's almost as if the beer itself is alive and growling!
Imagine walking down the street with your filled growler, and with each step, the beer inside is growling and making its presence known. It must have been quite a sight and sound for passersby.
Another theory suggests that the term “growler” was derived from the slang used by the workers at breweries. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, brewery workers would fill up a metal pail with beer and bring it back to the brewery for their lunch breaks. The noise made by the escaping carbon dioxide as they walked back to the brewery was said to sound like a growling stomach. Hence, the term “growler” was born.
Regardless of its origin, the name “growler” has stuck around and become a common term used to describe beer containers. Today, growlers come in various materials such as glass, stainless steel, or even ceramic. They typically have a tight-fitting lid or cap to keep the beer fresh and carbonated. Growlers are especially popular among craft beer enthusiasts who enjoy taking home their favorite brews from local breweries.
The name “growler” for a beer container has its roots in the sound that the beer makes as it moves and releases carbon dioxide. Whether it's the sloshing of the beer or the escaping gas, the term “growler” has become a quirky and memorable name for these containers. So next time you fill up a growler with your favorite brew, listen closely, and you might just hear it growl!