A pub is short for "public house". It is a drinking establishment that is licensed to serve alcoholic drinks for consumption on the premises. The term first appeared in the late 17th century. A pub has no strict definition, but according to CAMRA (Campaign for Real Ale), a pub has four characteristics:

• Open to the public without membership/residency
• Serve draught beer or cider without requiring food be consumed
• Have at least one indoor area not laid out for meals
• Allow drinks to be bought at a bar (i.e. not only table service)

Together, these characteristics differentiate pubs from restaurants and hotel bars, although some pubs also serve as restaurants or hotels. Pub names are used to identify and differentiate each pub. Modern names are sometimes a marketing ploy or attempt to create "brand awareness," frequently using a comic theme thought to be memorable.