Bandcup

Bandcup is a coinage used in hobbyist design and fan culture to describe either a wearable beverage vessel or a concept at the intersection of bands and sharing rituals. The term is not widely standardized, and its meaning varies by context.

As a physical object, a bandcup refers to a compact, wearable drinking vessel integrated into a wristband, belt, or instrument strap. Typical designs include a curved cup with a spill-resistant lid and a one-hand opening mechanism, enabling performers to hydrate without a free hand. Materials commonly used are BPA-free silicone, stainless steel, or food-grade plastics; capacities generally range from 100 to 250 milliliters. The device is intended for stage use, crowd events, or other crowded settings where hands-free access to liquids is advantageous.

As a concept, bandcup is used in design and media studies as a metaphor for communal consumption and social rituals in music culture. It can illustrate how artifacts mediate group identity, sharing practices, and the performative aspects of live events. In this usage, bandcup appears as an example of everyday objects rather than a single product.

Etymology and usage: The term appears to have emerged in online maker communities in the mid-2010s as a playful blend of band and cup. It remains a niche term with no formal standard definition, and its precise meaning tends to reflect the discourse in which it is used.

See also: wearable technology, hydration device, stage equipment, fan culture.