Candy Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐ฌ
candy
[หkรฆndi ]
Definition
sweet treat
Candy is a sweet food made with sugar or syrup combined with fruit, chocolate, or nuts. It is often enjoyed as a dessert or snack.
Synonyms
confectionery, sweets, treats.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| candy |
Commonly used in American English to refer to sweet foods, such as chocolates, gummies, and hard candies.
|
| sweets |
Commonly used in British English to refer to candies and other sweet foods, interchangeable with 'candy' in the US.
|
| confectionery |
A more formal term used to describe sweet foods, often used in the context of bakeries, shops, or high-end sweets.
|
| treats |
Refers to enjoyable and special items, which may include candies, snacks, or any delightful foods. Often used for rewarding or indulging.
|
Examples of usage
- I love to indulge in candy after a long day at work.
- She always carries a bag of candy in her purse for a quick energy boost.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Cultural Significance
- In many cultures, candy is associated with celebrations, such as Halloween in the U.S. when children collect sweets.
- Countries like Mexico celebrate 'Dรญa de los Muertos' with sugar skulls, representing the cycle of life and death through sweet treats.
- The Japanese have a traditional sweet called 'wagashi,' often enjoyed with tea, highlighting the blend of taste and artistry.
Health and Nutrition
- Candy is often high in sugar, which can give you a quick burst of energy, but too much can lead to health issues like cavities.
- Some candies are made with alternative sweeteners that can be lower in calories, appealing to those who want to enjoy sweets without as much sugar.
- In moderation, candy can be part of a balanced diet; itโs often used as a reward or treat rather than a staple food.
Science
- Sugar in candy triggers the release of dopamine in the brain, making us feel happy.
- Certain types of candy, like gummy bears, use gelatin, which is derived from animal collagen, to achieve their chewy texture.
- The melting point of chocolate varies by its cocoa content, affecting how it feels when you eat it.
Pop Culture
- The song 'I Want Candy' by Bow Wow Wow became a major hit in the 1980s, solidifying candy's presence in music.
- Candy Land is a popular board game that invites players on a colorful journey through a candy-themed world.
- Movies like 'Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory' celebrate the magic and fun surrounding sweets, capturing imagination across generations.
Origin of 'candy'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'candy' comes from the Arabic term 'qand,' which means sugar.
- In Middle English, it was referred to as 'candi,' showing its historical roots in sweet confections.
- The term has been used since the 14th century, initially describing crystallized sugar.
The word 'candy' originated from the Arabic word 'qandi', which means 'sugar'. It was later adopted into Old French as 'candi', referring to crystallized sugar. In the 17th century, the term 'candy' began to be used to describe sweet treats made with sugar. The popularity of candy grew over the centuries, with various types and flavors being created around the world.