Jawbreaker Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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jawbreaker
[หjษหหbreษช.kษr ]
Definition
candy, language
A jawbreaker is a type of hard candy that is known for its impressive size and immense hardness. Typically spherical in shape, jawbreakers come in varying colors and flavors. They are designed to be sucked on rather than chewed, and their tough exterior can take a long time to dissolve. The term can also refer to any word or phrase that is notably difficult to pronounce or articulate.
Synonyms
difficult word, hard candy, sucker.
Examples of usage
- I bought a giant jawbreaker at the candy store.
- His speech was filled with jawbreakers that left the audience confused.
- The kids enjoyed trying to finish their jawbreakers before dinner.
- That word is such a jawbreaker; I can never say it right.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Pop Culture
- Jawbreakers were popularized in the 1990s, appearing in numerous movies and TV shows as a fun element of childhood.
- A famous 1999 film titled 'Jawbreaker' featured a dark comedy plot centered around a group of teens and the accidental death of their friend during a prank involving the candy.
Science
- The manufacturing of jawbreakers involves a process called 'layering,' where sugar is heated and coated multiple times to create its hard exterior.
- This candy's hardness comes from a high sugar content mixed with various flavorings that solidify when cooled.
History
- Jawbreakers date back to at least the early 1900s, evolving from older forms of hard candy that were popular with children.
- During the Great Depression, these candies became popular for being long-lasting and providing a cheap, enjoyable treat.
Artistic Representation
- Jawbreakers have inspired various art forms, including illustrations in children's books that emphasize the fun of candy.
- Music and songs sometimes reference jawbreakers as a metaphor for something difficult to manage or handle in life.
Origin of 'jawbreaker'
Main points about word origin
- The term 'jawbreaker' originated in the 19th century, combining 'jaw' and 'break' to describe something that could challenge your jaw's strength.
- The name was partly inspired by the candy's tough texture, which makes it feel like biting into a rock if you arenโt careful.
The word 'jawbreaker' dates back to the early 20th century. It likely originates from the combination of the words 'jaw' and 'break,' suggesting the idea of something so hard that it could be difficult to chew or break with one's jaws. The term first referred to the hard candy that was designed to last a long time and provide a significant challenge for those who attempted to bite into it. The concept of 'jawbreakers' also evolved to include complex and difficult words, as the challenge of pronouncing such words can be likened to the challenge of breaking a jawbreaker candy. This dual meaning portrays the versatility of the term, illustrating both a fun confectionery and a linguistic challenge.