The world of candy is a delicious and diverse place, filled with sugary delights that spark joy in people of all ages. Among these treats, few are as universally beloved as the iconic Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup. But while its taste is rarely disputed, its pronunciation has been a source of playful debate for years. Is it “Ree-sees,” “Ree-zez,” or something else entirely? This article dives deep into the pronunciation of “Reese’s,” exploring its origins, regional variations, and the definitive answer straight from the source. Prepare for a linguistic journey into the heart of peanut butter and chocolate perfection.
The Origin of Reese’s and Its Name
To understand the correct pronunciation, it’s helpful to know the origin of the name. Reese’s was created by Harry Burnett Reese, an American confectioner and former dairy farmer. He worked for Milton Hershey before venturing out on his own. In 1928, he introduced the Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup, a combination of creamy peanut butter and smooth milk chocolate.
The candy was named after Reese himself. So, logically, the pronunciation should reflect his surname. This leads us to the next question: how did he pronounce his name?
The “Ree-sees” vs. “Ree-zez” Debate
The pronunciation of “Reese’s” often boils down to a friendly rivalry between “Ree-sees” and “Ree-zez.” Both versions have their proponents, and the debate often surfaces in casual conversations and online forums. Let’s examine the arguments for each.
The “Ree-sees” Argument
Many people pronounce “Reese’s” as “Ree-sees,” emphasizing the “s” sound. This pronunciation seems intuitive, especially for those familiar with the common English pronunciation rules. It’s also the version that many remember hearing in commercials and advertisements. This pronunciation feels straightforward and aligns with how many plural nouns ending in “s” are spoken.
The “Ree-zez” Argument
The “Ree-zez” pronunciation, with a “z” sound, argues that it’s closer to the original family name pronunciation. Supporters of this version often claim that the “s” sound is a more modern or regional variation. They suggest that the “z” sound is the more authentic way to say it. This side often points to historical records or anecdotal evidence suggesting this was the original pronunciation of the Reese family name.
The Definitive Answer: Straight from Hershey’s
While anecdotal evidence and regional variations offer interesting insights, the most authoritative source is the Hershey Company, which owns the Reese’s brand. So, what does Hershey’s say about the correct pronunciation?
The official stance from Hershey’s is that both pronunciations are acceptable. They acknowledge that the pronunciation varies across regions and among individuals. This may seem like a non-answer, but it reflects the reality of language and how it evolves.
However, while both are considered acceptable, the preferred pronunciation, according to many long-time employees and historical sources, is “Ree-sees.” This is based on the family’s intended pronunciation and the way the brand was initially marketed.
Regional Variations and Linguistic Influences
The pronunciation of “Reese’s” is also influenced by regional dialects and linguistic patterns. Different regions of the United States, and indeed the world, have unique ways of pronouncing certain words and sounds.
Regional Accents in the US
In some regions, like the South, the “s” sound might be softened, making the “Ree-zez” pronunciation more common. In other areas, particularly in the Northeast, the “Ree-sees” pronunciation might be more prevalent. These variations reflect the diverse linguistic landscape of the country.
Global Pronunciation Adaptations
Outside the United States, the pronunciation of “Reese’s” can be further influenced by the local language and accent. For example, in countries where the “z” sound is more common than a hard “s” sound, the “Ree-zez” pronunciation might be the default.
Why Does Pronunciation Matter?
While the candy will taste just as delicious regardless of how you say it, the pronunciation debate highlights the importance of language and its connection to identity and culture.
Preserving Heritage and Authenticity
For some, using the “correct” pronunciation is a way of honoring the brand’s history and the Reese family’s legacy. It’s about showing respect for the origins of the product and maintaining its authenticity.
Building Connections Through Language
Language is a powerful tool for building connections and fostering a sense of community. Sharing a common pronunciation can create a sense of belonging among people who share a similar background or interest.
The Evolution of Language
Ultimately, the pronunciation of “Reese’s” is a testament to the ever-evolving nature of language. Words and pronunciations change over time, influenced by various factors such as regional dialects, cultural trends, and marketing strategies. The fact that both pronunciations are widely accepted demonstrates the fluidity of language and its ability to adapt to different contexts.
The Reese’s Legacy and Enduring Appeal
Regardless of how you pronounce it, the Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup remains an iconic and beloved candy. Its perfect combination of peanut butter and chocolate has captivated generations of candy lovers.
Innovation and Expansion
Over the years, Reese’s has expanded its product line to include a variety of sizes, shapes, and flavors. From Reese’s Pieces to Reese’s Sticks, the brand continues to innovate and offer new and exciting ways to enjoy the classic peanut butter and chocolate combination.
Cultural Impact and Pop Culture References
Reese’s has also made a significant impact on popular culture, appearing in movies, television shows, and commercials. Its recognizable orange packaging and distinctive flavor have become synonymous with sweet indulgence and comfort.
So, How *Should* You Say It?
The answer, as we’ve seen, is not as straightforward as one might hope. Officially, both “Ree-sees” and “Ree-zez” are acceptable. However, if you want to be as close to the original intention as possible, “Ree-sees” is generally considered the more accurate pronunciation based on the Reese family’s name.
Consider these factors when deciding which pronunciation to use:
- Context: Are you speaking to a group of people who are familiar with the pronunciation debate?
- Regional norms: Which pronunciation is more common in your area?
- Personal preference: Ultimately, the choice is yours. Use the pronunciation that feels most natural and comfortable to you.
Ultimately, the most important thing is to enjoy the deliciousness of Reese’s, no matter how you say it. The shared love of this iconic candy is what truly unites us.
Beyond the Pronunciation: Fun Facts About Reese’s
Let’s delve into some fun facts that might make you appreciate this iconic treat even more.
- Harry Burnett Reese initially made candies in the basement of his house.
- Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups were originally sold for a penny each.
- Reese’s is one of the most popular candies in the United States, with billions of cups sold each year.
- The iconic orange packaging was chosen to stand out on store shelves.
- Reese’s has collaborated with other brands to create unique flavor combinations and limited-edition products.
The pronunciation of “Reese’s” may continue to be a source of friendly debate, but one thing is certain: its delicious taste and enduring appeal will continue to delight candy lovers for generations to come. So, go ahead, grab a Reese’s, and enjoy the perfect combination of peanut butter and chocolate – however you choose to say it!
What is the generally accepted pronunciation of “Reese’s”?
The most widely accepted pronunciation of “Reese’s” follows the way the brand’s founder, H.B. Reese, pronounced his own name. This means the emphasis is on the first syllable, and the “ee” sound is a long “e” sound, like in the word “see” or “tree.” Therefore, it’s pronounced “Ree-sez,” not “Ree-seez” or any other variation.
While regional dialects might influence slight variations in pronunciation, “Ree-sez” remains the standard and preferred pronunciation by the Reese’s brand itself. Using this pronunciation ensures clear communication and avoids any potential misunderstandings when referring to the popular candy.
Why is there confusion about how to pronounce “Reese’s”?
Confusion likely stems from the common English spelling rules, where a double “e” often implies a longer “ee” sound. Additionally, some might assume the pronunciation should rhyme with words like “pieces” or “fleeces.” These assumptions lead to incorrect pronunciations like “Ree-seez.”
Another contributing factor could be regional accents and variations in how vowel sounds are articulated. However, remembering that it’s a proper noun, specifically a family name, can help overcome these assumptions and lead to the correct pronunciation, “Ree-sez,” as intended by its namesake.
Does the Reese’s company have an official stance on the pronunciation?
Yes, the Reese’s company has implicitly confirmed the pronunciation “Ree-sez” through various marketing campaigns and official communications. While they may not explicitly dictate the pronunciation in every instance, they consistently use and endorse the “Ree-sez” pronunciation in their advertising and branding.
Furthermore, the company rarely, if ever, corrects or acknowledges alternative pronunciations in their official communications, which further solidifies “Ree-sez” as the accepted and preferred way to say the brand name. This consistent messaging reinforces the intended pronunciation and helps to clarify any lingering confusion.
Is it ever acceptable to pronounce “Reese’s” differently?
While “Ree-sez” is the officially preferred and most widely recognized pronunciation, language is fluid, and variations may exist depending on regional dialects or personal preferences. In casual conversation among close friends, a different pronunciation might not be problematic.
However, in more formal settings or when referring to the brand in professional contexts, adhering to the standard “Ree-sez” pronunciation is recommended. This ensures clear communication and avoids any potential for misinterpretation or perceived lack of familiarity with the brand.
What is the origin of the name “Reese’s”?
The name “Reese’s” originates from H.B. Reese, the founder of the Reese’s candy company. He initially worked for Milton Hershey before starting his own confectionery business. The candy was named directly after him, using his surname.
H.B. Reese’s vision and entrepreneurial spirit led to the creation of one of the most beloved candy brands in the world. Remembering the personal connection to the founder helps to understand the importance of respecting his intended pronunciation of the name.
Are there any other words that are commonly mispronounced similarly to “Reese’s”?
Yes, there are other words, particularly proper nouns and surnames, that often suffer from similar pronunciation errors. These often involve vowels or letter combinations that are pronounced differently than their most common phonetic values.
Examples include names like “Davies,” which is sometimes mispronounced, or geographical locations with unusual pronunciations based on local customs. These instances highlight the importance of context and knowing the intended pronunciation, especially when dealing with names or brands.
How can I ensure I’m pronouncing “Reese’s” correctly?
The best way to ensure you’re pronouncing “Reese’s” correctly is to practice saying “Ree-sez” aloud, focusing on the long “e” sound in the first syllable and the “z” sound at the end. Listening to audio examples, such as commercials or online videos featuring the brand, can also be helpful.
Another useful technique is to associate the pronunciation with a familiar word that contains a similar sound, such as “fleas” with the “ee-s” sound. Consistent practice and mindful attention to the intended pronunciation will eventually make “Ree-sez” the natural way to say it.