What is a "straw"?

A straw is a cylindrical tube typically made of plastic, paper, metal, or other materials, used for drinking beverages. It allows liquid to be drawn up through the tube and directly into the mouth without the need for tipping or tilting the container. Straws are commonly used with cold drinks such as sodas, smoothies, or iced coffee, as well as hot beverages like hot chocolate or tea. They come in various lengths and diameters to suit different types of cups and glasses, and some may feature bendable or flexible sections for added convenience. While plastic straws have been widely used in the past, there is a growing trend towards more environmentally friendly alternatives such as paper or reusable metal straws to reduce plastic waste.