National Name Your Poison Day

A group of friends at a lively bar, each holding a different colorful drink, surrounded by neon lights.. — National name your poison day illustration

Hey there, name your poison enthusiast! Today, we're diving into the history of National Name Your Poison Day, a day dedicated to facing the tough decisions in life. So grab your favorite drink and let's explore how this peculiar day came to be!

When is Name Your Poison Day?

It's national name your poison day on the 8th June.

The Origin of National Name Your Poison Day

Every June 8th, we celebrate National Name Your Poison Day. But where did this unique day originate? Well, the roots of this day can be traced back to the charming taverns of olden days, where folks would gather and engage in merry conversations over a few drinks. As the night wore on, choices became difficult, and the simple question "What'll ya have?" transformed into the playful phrase "Name your poison!"

This lighthearted expression caught on fast, becoming synonymous with making a tough decision. Naturally, someone thought it would be amusing to designate a specific day for embracing life's little dilemmas and channeling the spirit of the old tavern conversations. And thus, National Name Your Poison Day was born!

Celebrating with Loved Ones and Libations

Now, you might be wondering how to observe this delightful day. Well, fear not, for we have you covered! You can start by gathering your loved ones, friends, and even the occasional acquaintance, and treating them to a good time. Perhaps host a small get-together with a selection of beverages, both spirited and non-alcoholic, to cater to all preferences.

In true tavern spirit, encourage your guests to name their poison and indulge in light-hearted banter. Who knows, this could be the perfect opportunity to discover new concoctions and expand your taste horizons!

A Wareness of Responsible Choices

While National Name Your Poison Day is all about embracing the dilemma of decision-making, it's important to keep in mind the concept of responsible choices. If your poison is alcoholic, make sure your celebrations are carried out responsibly and with the utmost care. Remember, the goal is to have fun and create lasting memories, not to overindulge and regret it the next day!

Did You Know?

Did you know that the phrase "name your poison" originally referred to the act of requesting a poison for self-inflicted death? Thankfully, National Name Your Poison Day has taken a much lighter and safer interpretation!

History behind the term 'Name Your Poison'

1919

Prohibition Era

During the Prohibition Era in the United States, which lasted from 1920 to 1933, the production, importation, and sale of alcoholic beverages were prohibited. However, despite the ban, illegal alcohol consumption continued to thrive in secret speakeasies and underground bars. To maintain secrecy and avoid detection by law enforcement, patrons of these establishments would often use code words and phrases to order drinks. One such phrase was 'name your poison,' which essentially meant 'tell me what kind of alcoholic beverage you'd like to drink.' This phrase became popular during this time as a way to discreetly discuss alcoholic drink preferences.

1890

Introduction of the term

The term 'name your poison' first appeared in the English language during the late 19th century. It originated as a phrase used in bars and taverns to ask customers what type of alcoholic beverage they would like to order. Referring to alcohol as 'poison' was a humorous way to acknowledge the potentially harmful effects of excessive alcohol consumption.

Late 16th century

Poison as a metaphor

During the late 16th century, the term 'poison' had already gained metaphorical usage, referring to a harmful or dangerous substance or situation. The idea of 'name your poison' emerged as a figurative expression, suggesting that a person could choose from different harmful options or decide on their favorite vice.

1678

Dramatic origins in literature

The term 'name your poison' is believed to have originated in 1678 in William Congreve's play 'The Double Dealer.' In the play, the character Lady Plyant responds to a question by saying, 'Name your dram, and I'll fetch it you.' This phrase, which meant 'tell me what you want to drink,' is considered an early version of 'name your poison.'

Early 19th century

Poison in a literal sense

In the early 19th century, the phrase 'name your poison' began to be used quite literally in an intriguing context. It had a specific connection to the world of poisons and toxic substances. This period marked the rise of poisonous substances being used covertly for various nefarious purposes, such as assassinations and covert operations.

1920

Prohibition era impact

During the Prohibition era in the United States (1920-1933), the term 'name your poison' gained popularity. Since the production, sale, and distribution of alcoholic beverages were illegal, people had to frequent secret bars, known as speakeasies, to satisfy their desire for a drink. Bartenders would use the phrase to discreetly ask customers what kind of illegal alcohol they wanted to consume.

1940s-1950s

Film Noir and Detective Fiction

In the 1940s and 1950s, film noir emerged as a popular genre in American cinema. These crime dramas often featured cynical and hard-boiled detectives who would frequent bars and interact with shady characters. The phrase 'name your poison' gained prominence in film noir as a classic one-liner uttered by detectives or bartenders, emphasizing the dark and gritty atmosphere of the genre. It became an iconic and memorable line associated with tough, no-nonsense characters.

1807

Inclusion in English dictionaries

In 1807, the term 'name your poison' appeared in its current form in 'A New and Comprehensive Vocabulary of the Flash Language.' This English dictionary defined 'name your poison' as a figurative expression, suggesting a choice between unacceptable alternatives.

1960s-present

Common Idiomatic Expression

Over time, 'name your poison' transitioned from strictly being associated with the Prohibition Era and film noir to becoming a common idiomatic expression used in everyday language. It evolved to signify a more lighthearted and casual meaning, often used metaphorically to ask someone to make a choice when presented with multiple options, with the understanding that all options may have negative consequences. For example, it might be used humorously when choosing from a dessert menu or picking a movie to watch. Today, 'name your poison' has become a familiar phrase, demonstrating the evolution and lasting impact of this historic term.

1920s

Gambling and drinking establishments

During the 1920s, the phrase 'name your poison' found its way into the lexicon of gambling and drinking establishments. It became a common way for bartenders or dealers to ask customers what kind of drink or alcoholic beverage they desired. This colloquial usage allowed patrons to choose their preferred form of intoxication humorously.

1950s

Cultural references in media

In the 1950s, the term 'name your poison' became more widely known through its appearance in various forms of media, including movies and literature. It became a popular phrase used by characters, particularly in film noir, to convey a sense of danger and intrigue. The association with the underworld, gambling, and shady characters further added to its cultural significance.

1930s

Popularized in detective novels

During the 1930s, 'name your poison' gained popularity in detective novels and crime fiction. It was often used by cool and mysterious characters, such as hard-boiled detectives and femme fatales, to ask someone to choose their preferred method of death or poison.

1941

Featured in a film

The famous film 'The Maltese Falcon,' released in 1941, helped popularize the phrase 'name your poison' even further. In the movie, the character Joel Cairo asks detective Sam Spade to 'name your poison' while offering a drink, adding to the phrase's association with intrigue and suspense.

1980s

Metaphorical usage

By the 1980s, 'name your poison' had evolved beyond its original literal meaning. It began to be used metaphorically in everyday conversations to refer to any choice or decision that might have negative consequences. The phrase became a way to humorously acknowledge the potential risks or downsides of a particular choice or action.

20th century to present

Popular culture adoption

Throughout the 20th century, the term 'name your poison' gained popularity in everyday language, perpetuated by its appearance in books, movies, and songs. It became a catchy and versatile idiom, allowing people to playfully ask others about their personal preferences or even their vices in a lighthearted manner.

Modern Era

Commonly used idiom

Over time, 'name your poison' has evolved into a widely used idiom. It is frequently used in a figurative sense to ask someone to choose between unpleasant options or to indicate a willingness to accommodate someone's preferences or choices. The phrase has become embedded in popular culture, finding its way into movies, TV shows, and everyday conversations.

Present

Continued usage and familiarity

In the present day, 'name your poison' is still used colloquially, though its usage has become less common. It is often used in a light-hearted or sarcastic manner, highlighting the element of choice and acknowledging that every option may have its drawbacks. Despite its historical association with alcohol and danger, the term has found a place in popular culture for its evocative and humorous nature.