chili dog
Definition
Noun: A hot dog served on a bun, topped with chili con carne (a spicy stew of ground beef, chili peppers, tomatoes, and often beans).
Usage
The term "chili dog" specifically refers to the complete dish. It is a compound noun where "chili" modifies "dog" (a colloquial term for a hot dog). It is commonly found on menus at diners, fast-food restaurants, and sporting events in the United States.
Examples
- Noun:
- For lunch, I ordered a chili dog and a soda.
- The concession stand is famous for its spicy chili dogs.
- He always adds extra onions and cheese to his chili dog.
Advanced Usage
- The term is typically used as a singular countable noun ("a chili dog," "two chili dogs").
- It can be part of a compound modifier in phrases like "chili-dog stand" or "chili-dog eating contest."
Variants and Related Words
- Chili cheese dog: A chili dog that is also topped with melted cheese, often cheddar.
- Coney dog: A regional name for a chili dog, particularly associated with Detroit and other parts of the Midwest, often featuring a specific, sauce-like chili without beans.
Synonyms
- Hot dog with chili: A more descriptive, non-compound synonym.
- Frankfurter with chili con carne: A more formal description.
Related Phrases/Idioms
- "Everything but the kitchen sink": While not exclusive to chili dogs, this idiom humorously describes a heavily loaded chili dog with many toppings.
- My chili dog had onions, jalapeños, cheese, and sour cream—it had everything but the kitchen sink!
Noun
-
a hotdog with chili con carne on it
