In German-speaking countries, excluding Austria, a sausage commonly used for hot dogs is known as a Wiener or Wiener Würstchen.
Understanding "Wiener" and "Wiener Würstchen"
The term Wiener refers to a specific type of sausage that is popularly used in hot dog preparations. The more complete name, Wiener Würstchen, directly translates to "little sausage from Vienna" or "Viennese little sausage." The addition of Würstchen is a diminutive of Wurst (sausage), signifying a smaller-sized sausage.
Differentiating German Sausages
The naming of these sausages serves a practical purpose: it helps distinguish them from other traditional German sausage varieties. While Wiener or Wiener Würstchen are the standard terms for the type of sausage typically found in a hot dog bun, they are distinct from sausages like the Frankfurter. The Frankfurter is historically an "original pork-only mixture" that originated in Frankfurt, while the Wiener often has a different blend of meats and preparation style. This clear distinction in nomenclature ensures consumers can easily identify the specific type of sausage they are purchasing.
Regional Nuances
It's worth noting that while Wiener and Wiener Würstchen are prevalent terms across most German-speaking regions for hot dog sausages, Austria employs different terminology. In Austria, these sausages are commonly referred to as Frankfurter or Frankfurter Würstel, despite their distinct origin and composition compared to the original Frankfurter sausage from Germany.
Here is a summary of the common terms for these sausages:
| Term | Meaning / Usage | Region |
|---|---|---|
| Wiener | Type of sausage commonly used in hot dogs | German-speaking countries (except Austria) |
| Wiener Würstchen | "Little Viennese Sausage," synonymous with Wiener and refers to the hot dog sausage | German-speaking countries (except Austria) |
| Frankfurter | Original pork-only sausage from Frankfurt; also used in Austria for Wiener-like sausages | Germany (original), Austria (for hot dog sausages) |
