Why is a hot dog called a hot dog? - briefly
The origin of the term "hot dog" is debated, but one popular theory suggests it comes from a cartoonist's sketch in the early 1900s depicting sausages in a bun as "hot dogs." Another theory traces it back to German immigrants who sold sausages, called "dachshund" or "little dog" sausages, which were later anglicized.
Why is a hot dog called a hot dog? - in detail
The term "hot dog" has become synonymous with a particular type of sausage, typically encased in a long, soft bun and often served with various condiments. However, the origins of this name are shrouded in mystery, with several compelling theories attempting to explain its etymology.
One popular theory suggests that the name "hot dog" originated from a cartoon drawn by Tad Dorgan, a prominent sports cartoonist, during a baseball game at the Polo Grounds in New York City. According to this account, Dorgan was struggling with how to depict the unusual sausages being sold by vendors. As the story goes, he jotted down "hot dog" as a humorous reference to the long, thin shape of the sausage and the fact that it resembled a dachshund (a type of dog known for its elongated body). The cartoon gained traction, and the name stuck.
Another theory proposes that the term "hot dog" was coined by students at Yale University in the late 19th century. Legend has it that during a trip to Europe, some students brought back German sausages and started selling them at football games. The peculiar shape of the sausage led their classmates to joke that they were selling dogs instead of beef. Over time, this jesting evolved into the term "hot dog," which was eventually adopted by vendors and the general public.
Additionally, some historical accounts attribute the name "hot dog" to the manner in which these sausages were prepared. In the early 20th century, street vendors often used old, worn-out gloves to handle the hot sausages. The appearance of these grimy, well-worn gloves led people to refer to the sausages as "dachshunds" or "little dogs," a reference that eventually became shortened to "hot dog."
Despite these various explanations, it is challenging to pinpoint the exact origin of the term. However, what is clear is that the name "hot dog" has become an integral part of American culinary culture and continues to be recognized and enjoyed worldwide. The enduring popularity of this dish can be attributed not only to its unique taste but also to its iconic name, which has captured the imagination of food enthusiasts for generations.