pump
PUMP
/pʌmp/
A mechanical device used to move liquids or gases; or the act of using such a device.
At a service station, 'pump' can refer to the whole dispenser unit or the act of moving gas into a fuel tank.
The story behind the word. The word entered English in the 15th century from Dutch sailors who used wooden pumps to clear water out of ship holds. The term was adopted for fuel dispensers when motor cars became popular in the early 1900s.
Word relationships
- dispenser: Dispenser is a formal industry term for the station unit, while pump is the standard everyday word.
Commonly confused with
- nozzle: The pump is the large machine or internal mechanism, whereas the nozzle is the handheld metal spout at the end of the hose.
Word family
- pumping (noun): The action or sound of moving fluid.
Collocations
- gas pump
- fuel pump
- pump gas
- pull up to the pump
Idioms & expressions
- pump iron (exercise vigorously)
- pump for information (probe for details)
Example sentences
- "Pull up to pump number four and select your preferred fuel grade." Gas station instruction
- "The mechanical fuel pump failed, preventing gasoline from reaching the engine cylinder." Automotive repair
Memory hook
PUMP makes a 'plump-plump' rhythmic thumping sound as it pushes fluid. PUMP moves fluid through a pipe.
When not to use
Avoid confusing with 'nozzle', which is the hand-held piece attached to the hose.
Fun facts
- Early gas station pumps were operated manually with hand cranks before electric motor pumps were standardized in the 1920s.
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