The Widget
Created | Updated Mar 29, 2002
A widget is a device used to introduce nitrogen into canned beer to produce a firm head similar to draught beer. The nitrogen is released into the beer when the can pressure drops after opening. The drink must be poured immediately to prevent the nitrogen escaping completely (and to prevent any nearby Irishman from stealing your drink) as it is not very soluble in beer. The escaping nitrogen enables the formation of fine bubbles resulting in an extremely stable head on which it is possible to float a bowling ball or sign your name with a fountain pen. The word widget is undoubtedly derived from the word gadget and is sometimes referred incorrectly as being a "gismo," "dingus," or "do-hicky."
