gasman: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C1Informal/British. Most common in conversational British English; in professional contexts, terms like 'gas engineer', 'meter reader', or 'utility technician' are preferred.
Quick answer
What does “gasman” mean?
A person employed to read gas meters, install gas appliances, or repair/maintain gas supply lines.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A person employed to read gas meters, install gas appliances, or repair/maintain gas supply lines; specifically, an employee of a gas company.
In British English, informally used to refer to any utility worker dealing with gas supply, including emergency responders to gas leaks. It can also be used as part of a surname or nickname, e.g., 'the Gasman'.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
In British English, 'gas' commonly refers to the mains-supplied fuel used for heating and cooking (natural gas). In American English, 'gas' more commonly refers to gasoline for vehicles. Therefore, 'gasman' is a standard, though informal, British term for a utility worker, whereas in American English the term is largely unused and would likely cause confusion. The American equivalent would be 'meter reader', 'gas utility worker', or 'gas company technician'.
Connotations
In British usage, neutral to slightly old-fashioned, evoking a regular domestic visitor. In American usage, if encountered, might be misinterpreted as someone dealing with gasoline.
Frequency
Common in UK; extremely rare to non-existent in US general usage.
Grammar
How to Use “gasman” in a Sentence
The [gasman] verb-ed [the meter].[We] had the [gasman] in [to check the boiler].Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “gasman” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- We need to gasman the boiler before winter. (Very informal, non-standard)
adjective
British English
- He had a gasman-like knowledge of the pipes. (Informal, descriptive)
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Rare; replaced by 'field engineer', 'service technician'.
Academic
Virtually never used.
Everyday
Common in UK domestic contexts for scheduling appointments, e.g., 'The gasman is coming on Tuesday.'
Technical
Informal; professionals use 'Gassafe registered engineer', 'operative'.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “gasman”
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “gasman”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “gasman”
- Using 'gasman' in US English contexts.
- Capitalizing it as a formal job title (e.g., 'I am a Gasman').
- Using it for a petroleum/gasoline truck driver.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, it is an informal, colloquial term used primarily by the public. The formal titles are 'Gas Engineer', 'Meter Operator', or 'Service Technician'.
While the term is gendered, the informal job it refers to can be done by any person. In more formal or progressive contexts, gender-neutral terms like 'gas engineer' or 'technician' are preferred.
Because in American English, 'gas' most frequently refers to gasoline (petrol). An American would likely think of someone associated with fueling cars, not a home utilities worker. They use terms like 'meter reader' or 'gas company technician'.
Not inherently, but like many '-man' compounds, it can be seen as outdated or non-inclusive in professional settings. It is generally acceptable in casual British conversation without negative intent.
A person employed to read gas meters, install gas appliances, or repair/maintain gas supply lines.
Gasman: in British English it is pronounced /ˈɡasmæn/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈɡæsˌmæn/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “'While the gasman's here...' (used to suggest doing another task while a worker is present)”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of a MAN from the GAS company. Picture him wearing a uniform with a logo, carrying a tool kit, and checking the meter in your house.
Conceptual Metaphor
SERVICE PROVIDER IS A VISITOR; AUTHORITY OVER UTILITY (the gasman has access and control over your gas supply).
Practice
Quiz
In which variety of English is the word 'gasman' most commonly used and understood in its standard meaning?