<P> A soft drink (see terminology for other names) typically contains carbonated water (although some lemonades are not carbonated), a sweetener, and a natural or artificial flavoring . The sweetener may be sugar, high - fructose corn syrup, fruit juice, sugar substitutes (in the case of diet drinks), or some combination of these . Soft drinks may also contain caffeine, colorings, preservatives, and other ingredients . </P> <P> Soft drinks are called "soft" in contrast with "hard" alcoholic beverages . Small amounts of alcohol may be present in a soft drink, but the alcohol content must be less than 0.5% of the total volume if the drink is to be considered non-alcoholic . Fruit punch, tea, and other such non-alcoholic beverages are technically soft drinks by this definition but are not generally referred to as such . </P> <P> Soft drinks may be served chilled, over ice cubes or at room temperature . They are available in many formats, including cans, glass bottles, and plastic bottles (the latter in a variety of sizes ranging from small bottles to large 2 - liter containers). Soft drinks are also widely available at fast food restaurants, movie theaters, convenience stores, casual dining restaurants, dedicated soda stores, and bars from soda fountain machines . Soda fountain drinks are typically served in paper or plastic disposable cups in the first three venues . In casual dining restaurants and bars, soft drinks are often served in glasses . Soft drinks may be drunk with straws or sipped directly from the cups . </P>

Where did the name soft drink come from
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