Possible Origins:
* Onomatopoeia: Some believe "plonk" is simply an onomatopoeic word, mimicking the sound of a bottle being placed on a table or the pouring of cheap wine.
* French Influence: Another theory suggests it originated from the French phrase "vin de plonk," which translates to "wine of the slope." This may have been a reference to wines made from grapes grown on less desirable slopes.
* Military Slang: Some say it emerged from British military slang during World War II, as soldiers drank cheap, unrefined wine. The word "plonk" could have referred to the sound of the bottle hitting the ground or the act of quickly gulping it down.
* Australian Origin: There's also a strong belief that the word originated in Australia, possibly from the sound of a bottle hitting a table or the clinking of glasses during a casual drinking session.
Evolution and Usage:
Regardless of its origin, "plonk" gained popularity in the mid-20th century, particularly in the UK and Australia. It became associated with cheap, mass-produced wines, often criticized for their lack of quality and complexity.
Today:
While some still use "plonk" to disparage cheap wine, others find it a humorous term, often used in a lighthearted way. It has even been adopted by some wineries as a playful marketing tactic, with "Plonk" appearing on labels and in promotional materials.
In Conclusion:
The exact origin of "plonk" remains a bit of a mystery, but its popularity as a slang term for cheap wine is undeniable. Whether it's an onomatopoeia, a French reference, military slang, or an Australian invention, "plonk" has become a part of the lexicon of wine enthusiasts and casual drinkers alike.