Introduction

Is it a hot dog, frankfurter, or wiener? These popular street foods have various names, each with a unique history that reflects their journey from the meat markets of Europe to the bright lights of American street corners. Let's explore the different nicknames and terminologies associated with these delicious wieners and bangers.

What are the Different Names for a Hot Dog?

Whether you're in a fancy restaurant or a casual street food stall, there seems to be no shortage of names for this beloved sausage.

Hot Dog

The hot dog is the most common name in the United States, as well as many other English-speaking countries. This nomenclature is relatively recent, coming into common usage in the early 20th century. The origin of the term is shrouded in myth and speculation, with some suggesting it comes from the German word "wurst." However, the earliest recorded use in English dates to 1900, where it is said to have been used in the phrase "hot dog" to describe a sausage.

Frankfurter

The Frankfurter is the name given to a particular type of sausage that traces its roots to Frankfurt, Germany. The name itself is a direct reference to its origins, likely appearing in the English language in the early 1800s. These sausages were originally made from beef and pork, and over time, the term has come to refer to a variety of similar sausages, not just the original Frankfurt version.

wiener

Wiener is the term that takes the name of the sausage back to its German roots. This name is still used in many countries, including places like Canada and the UK, as a common term for a frankfurter or hot dog. Interestingly, the terms Frankfurter and wiener have their own linguistic evolution; while Frankfurter includes both traditional and modern variations, wiener tends to be more specific and can be associated with the original Frankfurt sausage.

Pyeron

Pyeron is a name used primarily in the Netherlands and especially in the north of the country. It is thought to come from the Old English word "pye,” meaning a kind of meat pie. This name is not widely used outside of a few specific regions but still reflects the diverse linguistic landscape of hot dog nomenclature.

Banger

In the United Kingdom, you might hear the term banger used to describe a sausage. This term gained popularity after World War II when it was used to describe a quality of intensity, strength, or power. Today, it is a common term for a fancy frankfurter or even a taut sausage, often wrapped in aspic or roll and heat treated for the table.

Braque, Wolfe, Langley, and Tubbings

Other regional terms include Braque, which is a gas house dog, Wolfe, a term from the USDA, and Langley, Tubbings, and Longbrainer, all used in Western Pennsylvania. These terms reflect the linguistic and regional diversity of these sausages.

Conclusion

The variety of names for a hot dog demonstrates the cultural exchange, dietary preferences, and linguistic influences that have shaped food traditions over time. From the mouthwatering Frankfurter to the quaint Banger, this sausage has traveled a long journey from European meat markets to the global stage. Next time you bite into a hot dog, perhaps you’ll appreciate not just the taste but the fascinating journey that led it to your plate.