Why is it called a hot dog? - briefly
The term "hot dog" originated in the late 19th century when sausages were sold at baseball games and other public events. It is believed that the name was coined due to the rumor that the meat used in these sausages came from dogs, which was later debunked as a false myth.
Why is it called a hot dog? - in detail
The name "hot dog" originates from a humorous anecdote involving a cartoonist and a New York Polo Grounds vendor in 1901. During a cold day at the ballpark, a sausage vendor named Harry Stevens sold hot dogs to keep his customers warm. A cartoonist named Tad Dorgan witnessed this scene and drew a picture of dachshund sausages nestled in rolls. Unable to spell "dachshund," he simply wrote "hot dog" on the sketch, which became an instant hit among readers. The term stuck and has since become synonymous with the popular American food item. The humor and simplicity of the name have contributed to its enduring popularity and widespread use in modern culture.