Jug

Jug, in its literary sense, is a container used to store liquids. Made from various materials such as wood, metal, glass and plastic, jugs are universally present throughout the globe. Traditionally, jugs have been made from clay and earthen material, giving the liquid within a tendency to remain unaffected by the external environment. Often bloated from the base with a narrow neck, jug has an ergonomic design for easy handling and a spout for pouring liquids through with accuracy. Most jugs have a handle, which adds to the comfort of the user. Different regions, however, have developed various connotations with the word jug. In Great Britain, for example, a jug may refer to a pint beer glasses, especially with handles.

A particular type of jug may get its name from its restricted usage. A ewer is a type of jug that only contains water. A pitcher refers to a type of jug that has an extended spout; whereas, kettle is a type of jug that can be used for boiling or heating the liquids. Jug has not limited its boundary to being a container only. Toby jug or a fillpot has its design customised like a sitting man. This is an ancient type of jug, whose existence can be traced back to the 18th century. A puzzle jug, on the other hand, is a jug used to play a game that involves drinking its content without spilling. The game may be often inscribed on the jug. Some trophies such as America’s Cup, Claret Jug and Little Brown Jug are shaped like a jug. The jug as a container also has a religious significance in some cases. In certain cultures, a broken jug may represent loss of innocence.