‘I’ll have a coke – no, not Coca-Cola, Sprite.’ Justin Sullivan/Getty ImagesValerie M. Fridland, University of Nevada, Reno With burgers sizzling and classic rock thumping, many Americans revel in summer cookouts – at least until that wayward cousin asks for a “pop” in soda country, or even worse, a “coke” when they actually want a Sprite. Few American linguistic debates have bubbled quite as long and effervescently as the one over whether a generic soft drink should be called a soda, pop or coke. The word you use generally boils down to where you’re from: Midwesterners enjoy a good pop, while soda is tops in the North and far West. Southerners, long the cultural mavericks, don’t bat an eyelash asking for coke – lowercase – before homing in on exactly the type they want: Perhaps a root beer or a Coke, uppercase. As a linguist who studies American dialects, I’m less interested in this regional divide and far more fascinated by the unexpected history behind how a fizzy “health” drink from the early 1800s spawned the modern soft drink’s many names and iterations.
Bubbles, anyone?
Foods and drinks with wellness benefits might seem like a modern phenomenon, but the urge to create drinks with medicinal properties inspired what might be called a soda revolution in the 1800s.An 1878 engraving of a soda fountain.Smith Collection/Gado via Getty Images The process of carbonating water was first discovered in the late 1700s. By the early 1800s, this carbonated water had become popular as a health drink and was often referred to as “soda water.” The word “soda” likely came from “sodium,” since these drinks often contained salts, which were then believed to have healing properties. Given its alleged curative effects for health issues such as indigestion, pharmacists sold soda water at soda fountains, innovative devices that created carbonated water to be sold by the glass. A chemistry professor, Benjamin Stillman, set up the first such device in a drugstore in New Haven, Connecticut, in 1806. Its eventual success inspired a boom of soda fountains in drugstores and health spas. By the mid-1800s, pharmacists were creating unique root-, fruit- and herb-infused concoctions, such as sassafras-based root beer, at their soda fountains, often marketing them as cures for everything from fatigue to foul moods. These flavored, sweetened versions gave rise to the linking of the word “soda” with a sweetened carbonated beverage, as opposed to simple, carbonated water. Seltzer – today’s popular term for such sparkling water – was around, too. But it was used only for the naturally carbonated mineral water from the German town Nieder-Selters. Unlike Perrier, sourced similarly from a specific spring in France, seltzer made the leap to becoming a generic term for fizzy water.Many late-19th-century and early 20th-century drugstores contained soda fountains – a nod to the original belief that the sugary, bubbly drink possessed medicinal qualities.Hall of Electrical History Foundation/Corbis via Getty Images
Regional naming patterns
So how did “soda” come to be called so many different things in different places? It all stems from a mix of economic enterprise and linguistic ingenuity. The popularity of “soda” in the Northeast likely reflects the soda fountain’s longer history in the region. Since a lot of Americans living in the Northeast migrated to California in the mid-to-late 1800s, the name likely traveled west with them. As for the Midwestern preference for “pop” – well, the earliest American use of the term to refer to a sparkling beverage appeared in the 1840s in the name of a flavored version called “ginger pop.” Such ginger-flavored pop, though, was around in Britain by 1816, since a Newcastle songbook is where you can first see it used in text. The “pop” seems to be onomatopoeic for the noise made when the cork was released from the bottle before drinking.A jingle for Faygo touts the company’s ‘red pop.’ Linguists don’t fully know why “pop” became so popular in the Midwest. But one theory links it to a Michigan bottling company, Feigenson Brothers Bottling Works – today known as Faygo Beverages – that used “pop” in the name of the sodas they marketed and sold. Another theory suggests that because bottles were more common in the region, soda drinkers were more likely to hear the “pop” sound than in the Northeast, where soda fountains reigned. As for using coke generically, the first Coca-Cola was served in 1886 by Dr. John Pemberton, a pharmacist at Jacobs’ Pharmacy in Atlanta and the founder of the company. In the 1900s, the Coca-Cola company tried to stamp out the use of “Coke” for “Coca-Cola.” But that ship had already sailed. Since Coca-Cola originated and was overwhelmingly popular in the South, its generic use grew out of the fact that people almost always asked for “Coke.”No alcohol means not ‘hard’ but ‘soft.’Nostalgic Collections/eBay As with Jell-O, Kleenex, Band-Aids and seltzer, it became a generic term.
What’s soft about it?
Speaking of soft drinks, what’s up with that term? It was originally used to distinguish all nonalcoholic drinks from “hard drinks,” or beverages containing spirits. Interestingly, the original Coca-Cola formula included wine – resembling a type of alcoholic “health” drink popular overseas, Vin Mariani. But Pemberton went on to develop a “soft” version a few years later to be sold as a medicinal drink. Due to the growing popularity of soda water concoctions, eventually “soft drink” came to mean only such sweetened carbonated beverages, a linguistic testament to America’s enduring love affair with sugar and bubbles. With the average American guzzling almost 40 gallons per year, you can call it whatever you what. Just don’t call it healthy.Valerie M. Fridland, Professor of Linguistics, University of Nevada, Reno This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article.
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Real, Meaningful and Full of Mana: How to Make This Holiday Truly Your Own
(Family Features) The holidays rarely look like the glossy greeting-card version you grew up with, and that ’s a good thing. From mismatched chairs around the table to spontaneous drop-ins and burnt cookies, the festive season can be a little messy, and all the more wonderful for it. After all, the holidays are yours and the way you choose to celebrate is what gives them meaning. When it ’s time to celebrate whatever the holidays look like for you, thoughtful touches, expert tips and delicious recipes can help turn those imperfect, unforgettable moments into lasting memories. They may even help you create new traditions of your own. Whether hosting a laid-back dinner for friends, a family gathering or carving out a quiet moment with a loved one, the season is truly what you make of it. It ’s all about creating comfort, connection and meaning in ways that feel authentic to you. This year, instead of chasing someone else ’s version of “perfect,” Teremana – the premium small-batch tequila brand – has created “Recipes for Real Mana,” a seasonal moment designed to help people embrace celebrations that reflect their own lives, tastes and communities in a way that feels real and authentic.
People Crave Belonging and Connection
A recent poll from the “American Psychological Association” found that half of Americans lack companionship, signaling that more and more people are craving deeper connections. When you open your doors, welcome others in and share good energy, no matter what that looks like, it offers seasonal inspiration that encourages people to come together in ways that feel real, relaxed and personal, tapping into the fundamental human need for belonging.
Find Your Recipe for Real Mana
A perfect companion for any holiday gathering, Teremana Tequila makes mixing cocktails effortless and fun, while festive initiatives like Recipes for Real Mana offer seasonal inspiration that brings people together. As part of the campaign, its holiday site features an interactive Cocktail Generator. Answer a few simple questions and the tool recommends a cocktail to match your vibe – whether it’s a Pomegranate Margarita for a festive get-together, a Cranberry Paloma for family gatherings or a Mocha Espresso Martini for a cozy evening by the fire. It ’s a playful way to explore new recipes, share good energy and bring a little extra Mana to every celebration. “Mana isn ’t just a word, it ’s a way of celebrating what really matters,” says Teremana Tequila Global Brand Ambassador Alan Ruesga-Pelayo. “This season, it ’s less about perfectly set tables and more about the moments that make you smile, laugh and connect. Whether you ’re raising a glass with friends, hosting a spontaneous gathering or savoring a quiet evening at home, Teremana is there to make those moments feel intentional, meaningful and a little magical. It ’s about opening your heart and your home, on your own terms.” From festive gatherings and cozy nights in, Recipes for Real Mana is a reminder that the holidays don ’t have to be perfect to be memorable. They are yours to shape; full of laughter, warmth and connection, exactly the way you want them. To find more information, inspiration and festive cocktail recipes, visit teremana.com/holiday and follow @teremana across social media.
Pomegranate Margarita
Servings: 8-10
2 cups Teremana Reposado
1 1/4 cups pomegranate juice
1 cup fresh lime juice
2/3 cup cinnamon syrup
3 pinches salt
ice
cinnamon sticks
rosemary sprigs
In pitcher, combine reposado, pomegranate juice, lime juice, cinnamon syrup and salt. Stir to incorporate.
Pour into rocks glasses over fresh ice.
Garnish with cinnamon sticks and rosemary sprigs.
Cranberry Paloma
Servings: 8-10
1 1/2 cups Teremana Blanco
1 cup cranberry juice
1/2 cup fresh lime juice
ice
grapefruit soda
lime wheels
cranberries
In pitcher, combine blanco tequila, cranberry juice and lime juice.
Pour into salt-rimmed Collins glasses over fresh ice. Top with grapefruit soda. Stir gently to combine.
Garnish with lime wheels and cranberries.
Mocha Espresso Martini
Servings: 1
1 1/2 ounces Teremana Anejo
1 ounce cold brew concentrate
1/2 ounce coffee liqueur
1/4 ounce chocolate syrup
ice
3 coffee beans or shaved dark chocolate, for garnish
In cocktail shaker, combine tequila, cold brew concentrate, coffee liqueur, chocolate syrup and ice. Shake until chilled.
Double strain into martini glass.
Garnish with coffee beans or shaved dark chocolate.
At our core, we at STM Daily News, strive to keep you informed and inspired with the freshest content on all things food and beverage. From mouthwatering recipes to intriguing articles, we’re here to satisfy your appetite for culinary knowledge.
Visit our Food & Drink section to get the latest on Foodie News and recipes, offering a delightful blend of culinary inspiration and gastronomic trends to elevate your dining experience. https://stmdailynews.com/food-and-drink/
Last Updated on November 7, 2025 by Rod WashingtonAdobe Stock
International Merlot Day
Every year on November 7th, wine enthusiasts around the world raise a glass to celebrate International Merlot Day. This special day pays tribute to one of the most beloved red wines, while also encouraging newcomers to experience the unique flavors of Merlot.
Derived from the French word “merle,” meaning blackbird, Merlot likely owes its name to the deep color of its grapes. Originating in Bordeaux, France, Merlot holds the distinction of being the most widely planted grape in the region, surpassing even the renowned Cabernet Sauvignon. It also ranks as the fifth most planted grape in Italy and the second most widely cultivated grape in Israel.
Beyond its European roots, Merlot thrives in various regions across the globe. From California and Washington in the United States to Chile, Australia, Canada, South Africa, Greece, and Mexico, each region imparts its own unique character to the wine.
Described by experts as having a dark fruit flavor profile, Merlot exhibits tantalizing notes of black cherry, blackberry, plum, and raspberry. These luscious fruit flavors blend harmoniously with herbal undertones, as well as hints of vanilla and mocha. While not a sweet wine, Merlot can possess a slight bitterness derived from the grape skins during the winemaking process.
International Merlot Day is marked by liquor stores, bars, and restaurants showcasing different varieties of Merlot and offering special discounts on bottles of this cherished wine. Merlot enthusiasts come together to toast their favorite libation, often participating in wine tastings and winemaking demonstrations. For those who have yet to experience the pleasure of Merlot, this day presents the perfect opportunity to indulge in its complex flavors.
To enhance the Merlot experience, consider enjoying a glass while watching a film that features this popular beverage. Movies like “Sideways,” “A Walk in the Clouds,” “Bottle Shock,” “You Will Be My Son,” “A Good Year,” and “Somm” offer a delightful cinematic accompaniment to your wine exploration.
Whether you’re a devoted Merlot aficionado or a curious newcomer, International Merlot Day invites you to savor the essence of this remarkable red wine and join the global celebration of its rich flavors and heritage.
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Share the Mana and Share the Table: How to connect with new people to spark joy
Teremana Tequila’s campaign, “Share the Mana, Share the Table,” encourages meaningful connections through shared meals. A kickoff event in Los Angeles hosted 113 strangers, showcasing the joy of community. The initiative highlights the importance of togetherness in combating social disconnection.
Share the Mana and Share the Table: How to connect with new people to spark joy
(Family Features) Sometimes the most meaningful conversations happen with people you’ve just met, especially when gathered around a shared table.
With its new initiative, Share the Mana, Share the Table, Teremana Tequila – the premium small-batch tequila founded by Dwayne Johnson – is proving joy multiplies when people open their doors, pull up a few extra chairs and make space for others. At a time when many are craving deeper bonds with those around them, the campaign is a powerful call to turn entertaining into something more meaningful: a chance to spark connections and spread positive energy.
From 113 Distillations to 113 Seats The movement launched in Los Angeles with a community gathering at Skylight ROW DTLA. In a nod to the 113 distillations Johnson personally tasted while developing Teremana, the brand invited 113 strangers to sit together for a shared meal at one long table. The result was an evening of togetherness filled with conversation, laughter, great food and cocktails, where countless stories were shared and 113 strangers became friends – a living example of Mana, the brand’s guiding philosophy of sharing good energy.
The Case for Connection Recent Pew research suggests Americans are feeling less connected than ever – only 54% reported feeling a bond with their local community in 2024. At the same time, studies from the University of Chicago show people consistently underestimate the joy of simply talking to a stranger. In other words: Humans are hardwired for connection but often forget how much it lifts them up.
A simple dinner party, a potluck or even a casual get-together can be enough to create those moments of connection. Here are a few ideas to try:
Instead of sticking to the usual guestlist, invite neighbors, colleagues or friends-of-friends who might otherwise eat alone.
At Teremana’s kickoff event, strangers were encouraged to sit side by side. Try mixing your seating chart to encourage fresh conversations.
Begin the meal with a toast that acknowledges everyone at the table, not just for showing up, but for sharing their energy and spirit.
You don’t need a five-course menu. A signature cocktail, hearty dish and warm atmosphere are often enough to spark connection.
Remember Mana isn’t about perfection, it’s about presence. It’s the positive spirit you bring into the room and the openness you share with others.
The Toast That Travels While Teremana’s community tables will continue popping up across the country, it is also rolling out a global social media campaign, encouraging fans everywhere to join in. With a few simple posts, you can spread your own ripple effect of good energy, sharing what it means to you to share the Mana.
Of course, there’s no table without a toast. To help kick off your gathering, consider The People’s Margarita and the Mana Paloma – crowd-pleasing drinks that are approachable and full of character. Whether you’re hosting a cozy dinner for four or a neighborhood gathering for 40, these drinks are designed to be shared.
More Than a Meal At the heart of Share the Mana, Share the Table is a reminder that gathering isn’t really about the menu or the drinks – it’s about the connection. When people pause to share food, conversation and good energy, they create moments that last long after the plates are cleared. The next time you gather friends, neighbors or even strangers, take a cue from this movement. Pour something delicious, pull up a few extra chairs and remember: when you share the table, you share so much more.
For more ways to embrace the spirit of Mana and to find cocktail recipes for your next celebration, visit Teremana.com and follow on social media @teremana.
At our core, we at STM Daily News, strive to keep you informed and inspired with the freshest content on all things food and beverage. From mouthwatering recipes to intriguing articles, we’re here to satisfy your appetite for culinary knowledge.
Visit our Food & Drink section to get the latest on Foodie News and recipes, offering a delightful blend of culinary inspiration and gastronomic trends to elevate your dining experience.
Valerie M. Fridland, Professor of Linguistics, University of Nevada, Reno This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article. 
