Crowler or Growler: Complete Guide to Correct Usage, Meaning, and Spelling

If you’ve ever visited a brewery or a taproom, you’ve probably heard someone ask for a crowler or growler.

These two words often confuse beer enthusiasts, writers, and English learners because they sound similar but refer to different types of beer containers.

A growler is a beer jug that is generally reusable, while a crowler is a sealed can, usually single-use.

People search for crowler or growler because they want to know the correct spelling, the difference in usage, and how to use these words properly in professional writing or menus. Using the wrong term can confuse readers, customers, and even affect your credibility.

In this blog, you’ll learn: the origin of both words, British vs American spelling rules, which spelling to use, common mistakes, everyday usage, popularity trends, and FAQs;

everything you need to write or speak confidently about crowler or growler.

---

Quick Answer

Term	Correct?	Meaning	Example
Growler	✅ Yes	Reusable glass jug for draft beer	“He filled his growler at the local brewery.”
Crowler	✅ Yes, specific	Sealed can or bottle for takeaway beer	“She bought a crowler of IPA to take home.”

Both are correct depending on the container type and context, so knowing the difference is essential.

---

The Origin of Crowler and Growler

Growler

The growler originated in the late 19th century in the United States. Early breweries used glass jugs that typically held 64 ounces of draft beer.

The name “growler” comes from the gurgling sound made by carbon dioxide escaping from the jug during transport, a process related to carbonation.

Crowler

The crowler is a more recent innovation, popularized by craft breweries for takeaway beer. Crowlers are typically 32 ounces and are single-use aluminum cans.

Unlike growlers, they are ideal for long-distance shipping and events like beer festival.

---

British English vs American English Spelling

Both crowler and growler are primarily used in American English. British English generally does not have a direct equivalent for “growler” because these beer containers are less common.

However, spelling and terminology consistency is important for global audiences.

Feature	American English	British English
Growler	Reusable glass jug	Rarely used, sometimes “beer jug”
Crowler	Sealed can or bottle	Rare, same as “sealed can”
Common Usage	Taprooms, breweries	Beer pubs, craft events

Tip: If your audience is in the US, always use growler and crowler according to container type. For UK readers, consider explaining the container in parentheses.

---

Which Spelling Should You Use?

• US Audience: Use growler for glass jugs and crowler for sealed cans.
• UK/Commonwealth Audience: Explain the type of container since “growler” may be unfamiliar.
• Global Audience: Include a brief definition, e.g., “Growler (reusable glass jug), Crowler (sealed can).”

---

Common Mistakes with Crowler or Growler

• Using “growler” for a crowler ❌
• Using “crowler” for a traditional glass jug ❌
• Spelling errors in menus, social media posts, or blogs ❌

Tips to Avoid Mistakes:

• Growler = reusable glass jug
• Crowler = sealed aluminum can
• Always confirm with the brewery for accuracy

---

Crowler or Growler in Everyday Examples

• Emails: “Please bring your growler to the brewery tasting event.”
• News Articles: “Craft breweries are offering crowlers for takeaway beer.”
• Social Media: “Grab a crowler of our new IPA while it lasts!”
• Formal Writing: “The brewery filled each growler with freshly tapped draft beer for distribution.”

---

Crowler or Growler – Google Trends & Usage Data

• Most popular countries: United States, Canada, Australia
• Search interest: Peaks during summer months and major craft beer events
• Common searches: “growler vs crowler,” “crowler meaning,” “growler container”

This data shows that crowler or growler is highly relevant for both casual and professional audiences.

---

Comparison Table: Crowler vs Growler

Feature	Growler	Crowler
Container Type	Glass jug	Aluminum can
Capacity	Typically 64 oz	Typically 32 oz
Reusable	Yes	Usually single-use
Usage	Taprooms, local transport	Takeaway, shipping, festivals
Spelling Confusion	Low	Sometimes confused with growler

---

FAQs

1. What is the difference between a growler and a crowler?

A growler is a reusable glass jug, while a crowler is a sealed aluminum can.

2. Can a crowler be reused?

No. Crowlers are typically single-use.

3. How much beer does a growler hold?

Usually 64 ounces (1.9 liters).

4. How much beer does a crowler hold?

Usually 32 ounces (1 liter).

5. Are growlers still popular today?

Yes, especially in US breweries and taprooms for draft beer transport.

6. Is “crowler” spelled correctly?

Yes, it refers specifically to a sealed aluminum can, not a glass jug.

7. Should I explain the term for UK readers?

Yes, include definitions since growlers and crowlers are less common outside the US.

---

Conclusion

Understanding crowler or growler is essential for accurate communication in breweries, events, and professional writing.

• Growler → Reusable glass jug for draft beer
• Crowler → Sealed aluminum can for takeaway

Using the correct term avoids common spelling mistakes, ensures clarity, and strengthens your professional or casual writing.

Whether you are a brewer, blogger, or English learner, this guide ensures you use crowler and growler correctly every time.

---