Why is a hot dog called that? - briefly
The name "hot dog" originates from a popular belief that sausages served in rolls resembled dachshund dogs. This colloquial term gained widespread use during the early 20th century, particularly in North America.
Why is a hot dog called that? - in detail
The origin of the term "hot dog" is shrouded in mystery and conjecture, with several theories vying for acceptance. One of the most popular explanations dates back to the late 19th century when German immigrants introduced their beloved sausages to the United States. These immigrants were known for selling frankfurters or wieners, which they often served in a long bun with various toppings. The hot dog's name is believed to have originated from a humorous reference to the shape and appearance of these sausages.
One theory suggests that the term "hot dog" was coined during a baseball game at the Polo Grounds in New York City in 1901. A vendor, facing a shortage of traditional buns, began serving his sausages on rolls, prompting a cartoonist named Tad Dorgan to draw a picture of dachshund dogs nestled in rolls. The term "hot dog" caught on and became synonymous with the sausage served in a bun.
Another theory traces the name back to a German butcher who emigrated to America in the late 1800s. This butcher, named Johann Georghehner, is said to have sold his wares at baseball games and fairs, shouting "They're red hot!" in broken English. Over time, this phrase was shortened to "hot dog," reflecting both the sausage's temperature and its German origins.
Regardless of its exact origin, the term "hot dog" has become an iconic part of American culture, symbolizing not just a type of food but also a sense of nostalgia and comfort. Whether enjoyed at baseball games, picnics, or backyard barbecues, hot dogs remain a beloved staple in American cuisine.