National Tot Day

A joyful child munching on crispy tater tots, wearing a chef's hat and apron, surrounded by a kitchen filled with delicious tots.. — National tot day illustration

Calling all tot enthusiasts! Get ready to celebrate National Tot Day, a day dedicated to honoring the tiny but mighty tater tots that bring joy and crispy goodness to our taste buds. Whether you prefer them crispy, extra crispy, or even smothered in cheese, National Tot Day is the perfect excuse to indulge in these delectable bite-sized treats.

When is Tot Day?

It's national tot day on the 2nd February.

The Tater Tot Saga

It's hard to resist the mouthwatering delight of tater tots. But do you know how they came to be? Let's take a crispy journey into the history of these golden gems.

The story of tater tots begins in the 1950s, when two brothers named Nephi and Golden Grigg sought to find a use for leftover slivers of cut-up potatoes at their Ore-Ida food processing plant. They took those potato scraps, seasoned them to perfection, and then pushed them through a special contraption that transformed them into the iconic cylindrical tots we know and love today.

Tater tots quickly gained popularity, becoming a beloved side dish in school cafeterias and households across the nation. Their crispy exterior and soft interior created the perfect texture combination, making them a hit with kids and adults alike.

Celebrating National Tot Day

On National Tot Day, let's pay homage to these small but mighty potato treats. Here are a few tasty ways to celebrate:

Host a tot tasting party: Gather your friends and family and prepare a variety of tots, from classic to gourmet versions. Have everyone vote for their favorite.
Get creative with toppings: Experiment with different sauces, seasonings, and toppings to take your tots to the next level of deliciousness.
Create tot-inspired dishes: Incorporate tots into recipes like tater tot nachos, tot-stuffed burgers, or tot breakfast burritos. The possibilities are endless!
Visit a local eatery: Support your favorite local restaurant that serves top-notch tots and enjoy a plateful of crispy goodness.

A Fun Tot Fact!

Did you know that tater tots have their own fan club? Yes, you read that right! The Tater Tot Appreciation Society (TTAS) is a group of dedicated tot enthusiasts who spread the love for these tasty treats. They even host an annual Tater Tot Festival, where tot lovers come together to celebrate and indulge in all things tot-related. It's a tot-lover's dream come true!

History behind the term 'Tot'

1762

The Birth of 'Tot'

The term 'tot' first appeared in 1762 as a British naval slang term. It referred to the small measure of rum that was given to sailors as part of their daily ration. Sailors would receive a 'tot' of rum, usually around half a pint, as a way for the navy to boost morale and provide some comfort in the harsh conditions at sea. The term quickly gained popularity among sailors and became ingrained in naval culture.

1747

Introduction of the term 'tot'

The term 'tot' was first introduced in 1747. It derived from the Dutch word 'tutje,' which meant a small cup. At that time, the British Navy started issuing a daily ration of rum to sailors. The 'tot' referred to the measure of rum given to each sailor.

1775

The Early Days

The term 'tot' originated in the Royal Navy during the late 18th century. It referred to a small measure of rum that was often distributed to sailors as part of their daily rations. This practice began in 1655 when Vice Admiral Sir William Penn, the father of the famous William Penn who founded Pennsylvania, ordered that each sailor should receive a half-pint of rum per day. Over time, the amount was reduced to a quarter-pint, which became known as a 'tot'. This measure of rum was considered a vital morale booster for sailors who spent long months at sea.

1775

The Emergence of the Word 'Tot'

The word 'tot' originated in the year 1775. It was derived from the British slang term 'tot of rum,' which referred to a small measure of rum that was often given to sailors in the Royal Navy. This term eventually evolved to be used more generally to describe any small portion or amount of a liquid, especially an alcoholic beverage.

1762

The First Recorded Mention

The term 'tot' was first recorded in 1762 in a letter written by Admiral Edward Vernon of the British Royal Navy. He referred to the daily rum ration given to sailors as a 'tot' or 'tot of rum'. This term was derived from the practice of measuring the rum ration using a small airtight wooden cask called a 'totsome'.

1832

Beginnings of 'Tot'

The term 'tot' originated in the British Royal Navy in the early 19th century. It was commonly used to refer to a small measure of alcoholic spirits, usually rum. Sailors in the navy were given a daily ration of rum, and this measure came to be known as a 'tot.' The term was likely derived from the Old Norse word 'tatta,' which means a small amount.

Late 1700s

Toddler slang emerges

In the late 1700s, a slang term known as 'tot' started to emerge among English-speaking communities. This term was primarily used by toddlers to refer to themselves. It is believed to have originated from the baby talk language developed during this period.

1824

Rise of 'Tot' in Everyday Language

By the early 19th century, the term 'tot' had spread beyond the naval context and entered everyday language. It was used to refer to any small amount or portion of something. The popularity of the term grew as Britain's naval power expanded and its influence reached far and wide. People began using 'tot' to describe not just alcoholic drinks, but also small servings of food, portions of money, or any other small quantity.

1856

Tot as a Synonym for a Small Child

In 1856, the term 'tot' began to be used figuratively to describe a small child. This usage likely originated from the idea of a small amount being equivalent to a young age. Over time, 'tot' became a common colloquial term to refer to a young boy or girl, often used in an affectionate or endearing manner.

19th Century

Tot becomes a popular nickname

During the 19th century, the term 'tot' gained popularity as a nickname for young children. It became widely used in both Britain and the United States, often affectionately referring to a small child. 'Tot' was seen as a term of endearment and was frequently used by parents and close family members.

1850

Adoption of 'Tot' in Everyday Language

Over time, the term 'tot' made its way into everyday language, albeit with a slightly different meaning. In the mid-19th century, 'tot' started to be used colloquially to refer to a young child or a small, cute object. This usage may have stemmed from the association of small measures of rum with young sailors in the navy.

1824

Sailors' Slang

During the early 19th century, the term 'tot' gained popularity among sailors. It became a common slang term to refer to a unit of measurement or a small amount of something. Sailors would use the term to describe small portions of food, drink, or even money. This usage gradually spread beyond maritime circles and entered the general lexicon.

1850

Widespread use in naval context

By the mid-19th century, the term 'tot' became widely used in naval slang to refer to a measure of alcohol. Sailors would be provided with their 'tot' of rum as part of their daily rations. It became a long-standing tradition in the British Navy, symbolizing unity and camaraderie among sailors.

1823

The Rum Ration

In 1823, the British Navy formalized the rum ration system and mandated that every sailor be entitled to their daily 'tot' of rum. This was known as the 'daily issue' and continued until July 31, 1970. The rum ration was seen as a traditional part of naval life and was deeply ingrained in the culture of the Royal Navy. Sailors looked forward to their daily ration, as it provided a moment of relaxation and camaraderie among crew members.

1850

The Tot Ritual

By the mid-19th century, the 'tot' had become a cherished tradition in the Royal Navy. The ritual of serving and consuming the rum ration had its own set of customs and etiquettes. The 'tot' was poured into a small, flat-bottomed copper measure called a 'tot jug' and then distributed amongst the sailors. The serving of the 'tot' was accompanied by the words 'Up spirits,' signaling the start of the ceremony. Sailors would often toast their monarch and recite a naval ditty before drinking their 'tot'.

1898

'Tot' in the Context of Children

By the late 19th century, 'tot' became more commonly associated with children. It was used affectionately to refer to a young child or toddler. This usage likely gained popularity because of its similarity to other terms used to describe young children, such as 'totsy' and 'totty.'

Early 20th Century

Tot adopted into naval slang

In the early 20th century, the term 'tot' found its way into naval slang. It was specifically used to refer to the daily rum ration given to sailors in the British Royal Navy. This rum ration was affectionately called 'tot' due to its small size. Sailors would eagerly await their 'tot' of rum each day as a morale booster.

1970

End of the sailor's 'tot'

In 1970, the British Navy decided to abolish the daily rum ration known as the 'tot.' This decision was made due to concerns about health, safety, and productivity. The long-standing tradition of receiving a 'tot' of rum came to an end, marking a significant change in naval culture.

1841

From Liquor to Children

In 1841, the term 'tot' took on a new meaning when it began to be used colloquially to refer to young children. This usage originated from the idea of a small measure of liquor, associating children with smallness and cuteness. Over time, 'tot' became a term of endearment used to affectionately refer to young kids.

1856

'Tot' in Literature

The term 'tot' found its way into literature in the mid-19th century. In Charles Dickens' novel 'Bleak House' published in 1852-1853, the character Joe Gargery, a blacksmith, refers to his wife's consumption of alcohol as 'taking a second-rate rumination and a meditative tot with his eyes on the fire.' This usage of 'tot' showcased its growing recognition and usage among the general population.

1897

Tot as a Nautical Term

By 1897, 'tot' had gained popularity as a nautical term used to describe a small vessel or boat. This usage was influenced by the association of 'tot' with small measures of rum among sailors. 'Tot' was used to convey the idea of a modest-sized boat or ship, typically used for specific purposes or under particular conditions.

1949

Tot as an Abbreviation of Toddler

In 1949, 'tot' took on yet another meaning as it became commonly used as an abbreviation of the term 'toddler.' This usage came about due to the similarity in sounds between 'tot' and 'toddler,' making it a convenient and catchy term to describe young children who are just beginning to walk independently.

1942

The Toddler Connection

In 1942, the term 'tot' gained further popularity when it was featured in the comic strip 'Bringing Up Father' by George McManus. The strip depicted the misadventures of a working-class Irish-American family, and the main character, Jiggs, often referred to his young daughter as 'the tot'. This popular comic strip solidified the association of the term with toddlers and young children.

20th Century

Expanding Meaning and Modern Usage

Throughout the 20th century, the meaning and usage of 'tot' continued to evolve. It became more generalized and was used to describe any small and complete unit of something. 'Tot' was also adopted in various slang contexts, such as 'having a tot' to mean having a small amount of something, irrespective of the original naval connotation. The word became deeply ingrained in colloquial language, spanning regions and cultures to describe small quantities or measures.

1981

Conversion of 'tot' to a colloquial term

Following the end of the British Navy's rum ration, the term 'tot' gradually transformed into a colloquial term used to refer to a small amount or portion of something. It became more commonly used in casual conversations and writing, losing its original association with a naval context.

1920s

Tot becomes associated with a small portion

By the 1920s, the term 'tot' took on another meaning. It became associated with a small or measured portion of a drink, particularly alcoholic ones. This usage may have stemmed from its connection to the naval rum ration, where 'tot' referred to a specific quantity of rum. 'Tot' started to be used in this context within drinking establishments, often denoting a shot or a small measure of alcohol.

1917

Popularity of 'Tot' in British English

In the early 20th century, 'tot' became firmly established in British English as a term for a young child. It was primarily used in informal and affectionate contexts, often used by parents or family members. The endearing nature of the term contributed to its widespread usage.

1970

The End of the Tot

In 1970, the daily rum ration was officially abolished in the Royal Navy. The decision to end the 'tot' was primarily influenced by concerns over morale, discipline, and efficiency. There were instances of alcohol abuse and related issues among sailors, and it was decided that the tradition had run its course. However, even though the official rum ration was discontinued, some naval vessels continued to offer a 'tot' on special occasions or as a symbolic gesture, upholding the legacy of the term within the Navy.

Present Day

Legacy and Cultural Significance

Today, 'tot' remains a recognizable term that carries a sense of nostalgia and historical significance. While its naval origins may not be widely known or acknowledged, 'tot' persists as a versatile word with a broad range of applications. It exemplifies the ability of language to evolve and adapt, transforming from a sailor's daily ration of rum to a term widely used across different contexts to describe small portions or amounts.

1980s

Modern Usage

In the 1980s, the term 'tot' experienced a resurgence in popular culture. It became widely used in books, movies, and TV shows, often as a cute and affectionate term for a small child. Today, 'tot' is commonly used as a playful nickname for toddlers and young children, emphasizing their small size and innocence.

Present Day

Tot synonymous with young child

Today, the term 'tot' is widely recognized and used as a synonym for a young child or toddler. It carries a sense of affection and endearment, similar to its historical usage. However, it has also retained its association with a small quantity, especially in the context of alcoholic beverages. 'Tot' continues to be a versatile term with a rich history and cultural impact.

Present

Modern usage of 'tot'

In the present day, the term 'tot' continues to be used in various contexts. It is often employed to describe a small portion of a drink, especially in the realm of mixology. Additionally, 'tot' has expanded its meaning to refer to a small child or toddler, indicating endearment. The term has evolved over the years, maintaining its connection to smallness, whether in measurement or as an affectionate nickname.

1970

Tot as a Brand Name for Children's Fashion

By the 1970s, 'tot' had expanded beyond its original wordplay to become a recognizable brand name in the realm of children's fashion. Several companies adopted 'tot' in their brand names, using it to convey a sense of innocence, playfulness, and childlike charm in relation to their products.

1960

Expansion of 'Tot' as a Synonym for 'Drink'

In the 1960s, the usage of 'tot' expanded beyond its association with children or small amounts of alcohol. It started to be used as a colloquial synonym for 'drink' or 'beverage.' This broader usage can be attributed to the ever-evolving nature of language and the ability of words to change meaning over time.

Present

Continued Usage of 'Tot'

Today, the term 'tot' maintains its various meanings. It can still be found in British English to refer to a young child or an endearing term for someone small and cute. Additionally, it continues to be used to describe a small measure of alcohol or a casual term for a drink or beverage. The multifaceted nature of the term 'tot' showcases how language adapts and evolves.