Is It “Hot Dog” or “Hotdog”? The Definitive Answer
The answer is definitive: both “hot dog” and “hotdog” are used, but “hot dog,” as two separate words, is the far more common and accepted spelling.
A Brief History of the Hot Dog
The origins of the hot dog are somewhat murky, shrouded in the mists of late 19th-century German immigrant culture in America. Several butchers lay claim to its invention, but one thing is clear: the frankfurter, or wiener, was transformed into the American hot dog by being served in a bun. This simple yet brilliant innovation made the sausage portable and immensely popular, particularly at baseball games and fairs. Early vendors would shout about their “dachshund sausages” (because of their shape), which some historians believe led to the “hot dog” moniker, possibly born from a cartoonist’s interpretation of the sausage.
Hot Dog vs. Hotdog: A Spelling Evolution
Initially, descriptions in print varied. One might see “hot-dog,” “hot dog,” or even “hotdog.” As the food gained widespread popularity, the two-word form, “hot dog,” emerged as the dominant spelling. Dictionaries recognize both, but usage statistics overwhelmingly favor the two-word version.
Why “Hot Dog” Became the Standard
Several factors likely contributed to the dominance of “hot dog.”
- Clarity: Separating “hot” and “dog” visually distinguishes the food from potentially confusing it with an actual canine.
- Historical Precedence: Early usage, though varied, often leaned towards the two-word form in reputable publications.
- Intuitive Understanding: “Hot” and “dog” are easily understood words, and their combination, while initially unusual, quickly became a recognizable phrase.
The Enduring Appeal of the Hot Dog
The hot dog’s enduring popularity stems from several factors:
- Affordability: Hot dogs are relatively inexpensive, making them accessible to a wide range of consumers.
- Convenience: They are quick and easy to prepare, perfect for a fast meal.
- Versatility: Hot dogs can be customized with a variety of toppings, appealing to diverse tastes.
- Nostalgia: The hot dog is deeply ingrained in American culture, often associated with childhood memories and summertime traditions.
Common Hot Dog Toppings Around the U.S.
The regional variations in hot dog toppings are a fascinating reflection of American culinary diversity:
| Region | Typical Toppings |
|---|---|
| Chicago | Yellow mustard, chopped white onions, bright green sweet pickle relish, a dill pickle spear, tomato slices or wedges, pickled sport peppers and a dash of celery salt |
| New York | Steamed onions and yellow mustard |
| Detroit | Chili, mustard, and onions |
| Sonoran (Arizona) | Bacon-wrapped, pinto beans, onions, tomatoes, mayonnaise, mustard, jalapeño salsa |
| Seattle | Cream cheese and grilled onions |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Why does the dictionary accept both “hot dog” and “hotdog”?
Dictionaries aim to be comprehensive, reflecting actual usage, even if one form is significantly more common. Since “hotdog” does appear in print and conversation, it’s included. However, the dictionary often notes that “hot dog” is preferred.
Is “hotdog” ever considered correct?
While generally discouraged in formal writing, “hotdog” is not technically incorrect, especially in informal contexts. Think of it like “alright” versus “all right.” One is more accepted, but both can be used.
What’s the origin of the term “hot dog,” anyway?
The precise origin is debated, but the most popular theory suggests it’s a playful reference to the dachshund sausages popular among German immigrants, combined with the fact that the sausages were served hot.
Is “hot-dog” (with a hyphen) ever used?
Yes, though much less frequently than either “hot dog” or “hotdog.” It was more common in the early days of the term but has largely fallen out of favor.
Does the capitalization of “Hot Dog” matter?
Capitalization is usually reserved for proper nouns, such as brand names (e.g., Oscar Mayer Hot Dogs). Generally, “hot dog” or “hotdog” are lowercase when referring to the food in general.
Are there other terms for a hot dog besides “hot dog” and “hotdog”?
Absolutely! Depending on the region, you might hear it called a “frank,” “wiener,” “tube steak,” or even a “red hot.” These terms are often used interchangeably.
Does the spelling matter in food-related contexts, like menus or recipes?
While both spellings are understandable, using “hot dog” is generally considered more professional and consistent with standard written English.
Does the choice of spelling reflect on the writer’s credibility?
Using “hotdog” won’t necessarily damage your credibility, especially in casual writing. However, in formal contexts, it might be perceived as less polished than “hot dog.”
How does the usage of “hot dog” vs. “hotdog” vary across different countries?
The term “hot dog” is widely understood in English-speaking countries. However, the popularity of the food and the specific terminology can vary significantly. For example, in some parts of Europe, it might be called a “frankfurter” or simply a “sausage.”
Are there any specific style guides that recommend one spelling over the other?
Most style guides (AP, Chicago, etc.) don’t explicitly address the “hot dog” vs. “hotdog” debate. However, their general guidance favors using two words when a compound noun is not fully established or when clarity is improved. “Hot dog” fits this description.
What’s the best way to remember the correct spelling?
Think of it as two separate concepts – hot and dog – coming together to describe the food. This reinforces the two-word form: “hot dog“.
If I see “hotdog” used, should I correct it?
Unless you’re an editor or proofreader, it’s generally not necessary to correct someone’s spelling, especially in informal communication. However, if you’re creating content for publication, stick with “hot dog.”