soda-fountain
Definition
- Noun (countable):
- A counter or device for dispensing soda water: A "soda fountain" is a piece of equipment, typically found in a drugstore or diner, that dispenses carbonated water and flavored syrups to make drinks like sodas, sundaes, and milkshakes.
- An establishment serving such drinks: By extension, "soda fountain" also refers to the entire counter or shop area where these beverages and ice cream treats are served.
Usage Examples
- Noun (the equipment):
- The old-fashioned diner still has a working soda fountain behind the counter. (The restaurant has a device that dispenses carbonated drinks.)
- Noun (the establishment):
- Teenagers used to gather at the local soda fountain for milkshakes after school. (They met at the counter or shop that serves soda and ice cream.)
Advanced Usage
- "Soda fountain" as a cultural reference: In American history, the soda fountain was a social hub, especially in the early 20th century, where people of all ages socialized over non-alcoholic drinks.
- The soda fountain was a symbol of wholesome entertainment before the rise of fast food. (It represented a place for simple, social enjoyment.)
Variants and Related Words
- Soda (n): a sweet, carbonated beverage; also, sodium carbonate used in baking.
- Fountain (n): a structure that sends water into the air; also, a source of something.
- Soda jerk (n, informal): a person who operates a soda fountain.
- The soda jerk skillfully mixed the cherry soda at the counter. (The server made the drink.)
Synonyms
- Ice cream parlor: a shop serving ice cream and similar treats (often overlaps with soda fountain).
- Drugstore counter: a historical term for the counter in a pharmacy that served soda drinks.
Related Idioms
- "Soda fountain society": a term describing the social culture centered around soda fountains in mid-20th-century America.
- The film portrays the soda fountain society of the 1950s. (It shows the social gatherings at such counters.)